Kawartha World Issues Centre (KWIC) in collaboration with Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre (KSAC) and their community partners are delighted to announce their upcoming International Women's Day (IWD) 2024 event in Nogojiwanong/Peterborough. The annual global celebration on March 8th acknowledges women's achievements and advocates for equality, created by the United Nations in 1977 to raise awareness of women's vital role in peace efforts, aiming to end discrimination and ensure their full contribution to the world. This year's theme, "Inspire Inclusion," underscores the crucial need for fostering a diverse and inclusive society.
We extend a warm invitation in the free, accessible local observance of IWD 2024, featuring a vibrant downtown rally and march scheduled from noon to 1:00 pm, followed by a captivating evening hybrid event of storytelling at the Peterborough Public Library from 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm, doors open at 4:30 pm. The rally at noon will start downtown in the Peterborough Square Courtyard with opening drumming and will travel North along the sidewalks of George Street to Confederation Park, across from City Hall. Once we reach City Hall, the International Women's Day Declaration will be read with thoughts offered by Councillor Joy Lachica and a poem from Peterborough's current Poet Laureate, Ziysah von Bieberstein.
The evening hybrid event will take place in person at the Friends of the Library Community Room - Peterborough Public Library - 345 Aylmer St. N Peterborough, ON K9H 3V7 and online via Zoom. Free to attend, registration is encouraged and light refreshments will be provided. Hosted by Simal Iftikhar, the beginning of the evening will feature the Raging Grannies, and an opening drumming from Janet McCue.
Join us in celebrating the significance of community and the power of shared narratives with storytellers: Aanya Singh, Jaida Ponce, and Kait Dueck. Then partake in a communal activity designed to forge connections and cultivate meaningful relationships. The evening will wrap up with a closing poem by Sarah Lewis.
Both community events hosted by KWIC and KSAC are free, aligning with their commitment to equitable communities. Raised funds cover venue costs, participant nourishment, and fair compensation for speakers. To contribute, contact: jenright@kawarthasac.ca for donations or financial support in celebrating women's achievements and advancing gender equality.
