Chilliwack is gearing up to celebrate Women's Day on March 8 in style, with an open event featuring diverse speakers, and an art show.
The Chilliwack Soroptimists have partnered with Chilliwack-Hope MLA Gwen O’Mahony to give the community an opportunity to stand together, and unite against violence against women. A key component is the participation of men.
“We are part of a growing movement that is saying: This is not just a women’s issue. This is a community issue that all members of society, including men, need to address as human beings with the inherent right to live in peace and security,” said O'Mahony in a press release.
In this light, the organizers are bringing in two men as keynote speakers: Damian George, a spiritual advisor in the correctional system and member of the Moose Hide Campaign; and Dr. Rob Lees, a psychologist and university professor.
Four women speakers will follow the keynotes. Bankruptcy trustee Sheila Smelt will speak about women and financial abuse, personal trainer Tanja Shaw will cover fitness, B.C. NDP candidate for Chilliwack, Patti MacAhonic, will address time management, and Bobbi Jacob, director of local shelter Ann Davis Transition Society, will provide a brief on the organization's programs.
The event will take place on March 8, 1–4 p.m., at St. Thomas’s Anglican Church Ministry Centre (46068 Gore Avenue, Chilliwack).
To raise awareness about violence against women, the organizers are hosting a media contest, and encouraging local students to submit photography, posters, videos, and other art on the day's theme.
The Chilliwack Huskers Football Club will present the prizes at the event, consisting of a $1,000 grand prize, $500 for second place, and $250 for third.
Deadline to submit has been extended to Thurs, March 7, the day before the big event, to make sure that everyone has a chance to get their submissions in, says Chilliwack-Hope MLA Gwen O'Mahony.
Students can send submissions to anita@legacypacific.com or gwen.o'mahony.mla@leg.bc.ca.
akonevski@theprogress.com
twitter.com/WriteInBC