By Paula Faragher
Each year around the world, International Women's Day (IWD) is celebrated on March 8.
Thousands of events occur not just on this day but throughout March to mark the economic, political and social achievements of women. This year’s theme is "Inspiring Change.”
The idea of a day for women began at the beginning of 20th century in America and Europe. The focus was the movement for women’s rights and achieving universal suffrage for women.
International Women’s Day really took hold between 1913 and 1917 when women held rallies either to protest the war or to express solidarity with their sisters.
Despite great strides made by the international women’s rights movement over many years, women and girls around the world are still married as children or trafficked into forced labour and sex slavery. Women are refused or excluded access to education and political participation, and some are trapped in conflicts where their bodies are perpetrated as a weapon.
Around the world, deaths related to pregnancy and childbirth is needlessly high, and women are prevented from making deeply personal choices in their private lives.
Many of us may think “this doesn’t happen in Canada” but we don’t have to leave our own province to see examples of the mistreatment of women. For years Aboriginal girls and women in northern British Columbia have succumb to violence and abuse on the “Highway of Tears.”
On average, women receive between 30 and 40 per cent less pay than men earn for the same work. Women also continue to be victims of violence, with rape and domestic violence listed as significant causes of disability and death.
Women have fought for their rights on and off the field for years, many without knowing praise or validation.
International Women’s Day is a day to celebrate all women for their contribution to moving forward for a more equal tomorrow.
How do we move forward?
My suggestion is to start small, start with self awareness of the inequalities that still exist in our society. Secondly, we could open our hearts to allow for real change. With recognition comes change, and with change, the possibility that one day gaps in inequalities may no longer exist.
Celebrate International Women’s Day at the 100 Mile House & District Women’s Centre Society (#102-475 Birch Ave.) on March 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Join us for cake, coffee, door prizes and the Cariboo Women Photo Gallery.
Paula Faragher is the 100 Mile House and District Women’s Centre Society’s women’s counsellor – 250-395-4093.