The United Nations first celebrated International Women’s Day on March 8, 1975. In 1977 the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed an annual observance of Women’s Rights and International Peace. International Women’s Day (IWD) has grown in scope ever since, and in some nations around the globe, it is a national holiday. It is important to note that the United Nations has declared women’s rights as the number one human rights issue in the world – IWD is not simply a day to honour the achievements of women; rather there is a coordinated effort to address gender inequities that are the root of violence against women and girls.
Many communities, cities and nations hold events for the week that March 8 (IWD) falls within each year – thus the term International Women’s Week, or IWW, has arisen. Each year there is a theme, and this year’s theme is “Planet 50-50 by 2030: Step it Up for Gender Equality!” To celebrate IWW and IWD in 2016, Agape House will be hosting a live theatrical performance by Sarasvati Productions, called Cabaret of Monologues. On March 10, 2016, three short plays will be performed, all featuring themes relevant to women and gender equality. The event will be held from noon until 1 p.m. at Pat Porter Active Living Centre, the Fireside Room. Bring your bagged lunch and enjoy Sarasvati’s unique use of performing arts to influence social change! A silver collection will be taken and attendees are encouraged to bring one or two non-perishable food items for Agape House. Part of the silver collection will support the actor’s travelling expenses, and the remaining proceeds will go toward Agape House shelter programs. Seating is limited, so please confirm your attendance by calling our administration office at 204-326-6062.
As IWW and our Cabaret of Monologues approach, we encourage you to visit the following United Nations web site and learn more about these global initiatives: http://www.unwomen.org/en/news/in-focus/international-womens-day Agape House challenges you to speak out for women’s rights – women’s rights are human rights, and together we can make a difference!