Celebrating women
by Corey LeBlanc coreyleblanc@thecasket.ca
Darlene Rushton was one of the visitors who painted an inspirational message on a banner during International Women’s Day celebrations at Saint Andrew Junior School on March 8. (Corey LeBlanc photo)
Four-year-old Skye MacGillivray smiled proudly as she printed her name in a colourful memory book. That was just one of the many displays of creativity on Sunday afternoon when more than 50 women and children gathered to celebrate International Women’s Day at Saint Andrew Junior School in Antigonish. “It has been really nice to see all of the generations come together. It is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate women and all their creativity,” Antigonish Women’s Resource Centre (AWRC) director Lucille Harper said. Along with music and other entertainment, visitors had an opportunity to add a message to a commemorative banner, weave a bracelet or even receive a colourful face painting. “We are so pleased with everything. It has been so wonderful to have an opportunity for women to gather and show and enjoy each other’s creativity,” Wyanne Sandler, who organized the celebration with Elizabeth Glinz, said. Harper said the multi-generational mix of women, including daughters, mothers and grandmothers was inspirational. “There is so much wisdom and hope here.” Even with the celebratory nature of the gathering, Harper pointed out the day also provides a chance to remember the “ongoing struggle for equality and justice” women still experience around the world. Harper said women remain more likely to live in poverty, experience violence and have issues with pay equity. “All you have to do is look at the new federal budget.” “The struggles continue. It is not only an opportunity to celebrate, but also a chance for us to recognize we need to continue to work together to create a better world,” Harper said. The Antigonish celebration was one of hundreds across the country and around the world. The fun-filled gathering concluded with a rousing sing-a-long. “It is heartening to see what is going on in this room. It is so gratifying that it makes me emotional,” Harper said. >> Return to articles main
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