March 8 marked International Women’s Day, when both genders honour the successes of women everywhere and further the campaign for the fight for equality.
And to mark the occasion at Algonquin, female and male students and staff gathered in the student commons at noon to openly discuss, share stories and hear speeches by inspiring women in Canada.
“Today marks the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of all women, regardless of religion, colour or political stripes,” said Karma MacGregor, senior advisor to the Opposition Whip in the Senate, during her speech.
“But we still have a long way to go.”
MacGregor was talking about male/female ratio in parliament. Out of 338 members of Canadian parliament there are only 88 female members.
“Far too many women face discrimination on a daily basis,” added MacGregor.
The event brought out women from numerous sectors of the workforce, as well as students and volunteers from Algonquin, including Algonquin student Samantha Jerome of the public relations program, who gave a beautiful acoustic performance of her rendition of “Scars to your beautiful” to help celebrate the day.
Senator Salma Ataullahjan was also in attendance and gave a moving and encouraging speech.
“As a senator and a proud mother of two strong women, I know without a doubt that women can be key decision-makers whether in governance, business, home-making or any other endeavour they set their mind to.”