Published on February 22, 2023
International Women’s Day- It’s About More Than 'Celebrating' Women
Marked annually on March 8, International Women’s Day is a global day acknowledging the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women, and it’s about more than “celebrating” women.
It’s a day to:
- Educate and raise awareness about equity for women,
- Challenge gender stereotypes and barriers for all women, girls, two-spirit, trans and non-binary people,
- Lobby for accelerated gender parity, and
- Acknowledge the rights, support and respect women deserve.
This includes fair and livable wages, freedom from violence, appropriate housing and childcare, leadership opportunities, and conditions where all can thrive.
Throughout the month of March, the public is invited to attend events in recognition of International Women’s Day. There’s a variety of community events people can participate in to watch, listen, and join in discussions to learn about the challenges that women still face today and how we can help them.
Leanne MacMillan, Community Development Coordinator with the City of St. Albert’s Community Services department encourages the public to come to the events to first learn and then act. “It can be hard for people to understand what they haven’t experienced themselves. We always encourage people to put themselves in another's shoes and to be curious and kind,” says Leanne.
“The ultimate goal of a month-long recognition of International Women’s Day is that people will take the time to learn more, gain empathy and take action by talking to others about the importance of creating equity for all women,” adds Leanne.
“In the Community Services department we have seen great resilience as women reach out for counselling for themselves and their children for past or current trauma. The courage to reach out for help when covering basic needs can be very challenging,” explains Leanne.
Women need to feel seen, heard and understood so they can feel empowered and inspired to share the barriers they face with those who can make a difference.
We all have a role to play in identifying and breaking down the barriers women face in our community to help them thrive and succeed. What will be your call to action to help embrace equity?
Join us for the following free events
- Have a Seat at Our Table – March 1 to 31: A collaborative community art installation from the City of St. Albert & St. Albert Food Bank and Community Village.
- Mary Two-Axe Earley: I Am Indian Again – March 3: Screening and conversation at the St. Albert Public Library.
- Arts Exchange: Elevating Women in the Arts – March 8: A panel discussion presented by the City of St. Albert.
- Art Nook – until March 11: A free activity at the Art Gallery of St. Albert inspired by their current exhibition, Tethers.
- A Woman’s Place – until March 11: Musée Héritage Museum exhibit that profiles the lives of remarkable women and community builders.
- Ready to Rise – March 14: A webinar to help women move forward on their professional paths.
- Queering Femininity – March 1 to 31: Youth are invited to share original art or written pieces to Outloud St. Albert.
Registration may be required for some events. Full event details can be found at stalbert.ca/women.
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Last edited: March 20, 2023