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Women across BC celebrate and work for change on International Women's Day March 8, 2008
International Women's Day originated from the struggles of women for shorter work hours, better pay and the right to vote in the early 1900s. Since its birth in the socialist movement in Copenhagen in 1911, International Women's Day has grown to become a global day of recognition and celebration in countries across the world. In over a dozen countries it is now an official holiday. Closer to home, both nationally and in BC, women are being hit hardest from government cuts. Senior women, women of colour and aboriginal women are among the most poor and in Canada women still only earn 70% of what men earn for full-time work.
Here are some ways that you can participate in International Women's Day 2008:
In Abbotsford, the Women's Resource Centre of the Fraser Valley presents A Celebration of Women's Contributions to Arts and Culture beginning at 9:30 am, March 8th at the old Post Office (George Ferguson Way and Montrose Ave.). More info? Call Pam 604 302-8324.
In Burnaby, join the BC Federation of Labour folks, Federal MP Dawn Black and others for breakfast at the Metrotown Hilton on Friday, March 7th. All proceeds from this event go to support scholarships to the 2008 Summer Institute for Union Women. An updated report on the effects of cutbacks on BC women will also be released. For tickets call 604 430-1421. On March 8th at 1:00 pm at the Burnaby Village Museum, learn more about how to research female ancestors with the Women's History Network of BC.
Contact Diane 604 294-5369.
In Nanaimo, enjoy a lunch at the Nanaimo Golf Club on March 8th and talk with other women leaders about how to gain equality once and for all! RSVP 250 753-0201.
In Vancouver, women will March against War and Poverty! on March 8th. Meet at 11:00 am at the Women's Monument (Main and Terminal) and march to Victory Square (Hastings and Cambie) for noon. Info tables 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm at BCIT (555 Seymour Street); evening celebrations at Trout Lake Community Centre (3350 Victoria Drive). Get more info at iwdvancouver@gmail.com
At the Vancouver Public Library (350 W. Georgia Street) at 1:30 pm Saturday, March 8th, the Action Committee for free Burma will present a report from the Burmese Women's Union, “Caught Between Two Hells”. RSVP to freeburma@live.ca
The West Kootenay Women's Association & the Nelson and District Women's Centre are organizing a Women's Resource Fair, chili dinner, speakers and skits at the Royal Canadian Legion Hall on International Women's Day Saturday, March 8th. Activities start at 3pm. For more information, call the Centre at 250 352-9916.
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