International Women’s Day event delivers a powerful message

More than 50 people attended an inspiring event in a 
Bishopbriggs church last week to mark International Women’s Day

Empowered – the new name for East Dunbartonshire’s Violence against Women Partnership – celebrated the special day by running a fun event with a serious message at Woodhill Evangelical Church.

A whole host of exciting and engaging activities and talks were organised to celebrate women’s achievements throughout history.

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A number of information stalls were also available to browse while taster massage and yoga sessions offered attendees some relaxation.

Among the many inspiring speakers on the day was a domestic abuse survivor, who gave a powerful insight into a women’s experience of domestic abuse, while Wendy Brochie from Rape Crisis delivered a workshop looking at gender stereotyping and the media.

A representative from Women 50:50 gave a presentation on their campaign for equal representation in parliament, councils and public boards, while Close the Gap talked about their campaigns in relation to closing the gender pay gap.

Council leader Rhondda Geekie said: “International Women’s day is used to recognise the economic, political and social achievements of women past, present and future.

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“This year’s theme was ‘Make it Happen’, calling for greater gender equality so that women across the world are paid the same as their male counterparts, women are represented equally in business and politics and that there is an end to violence against women.

“It was particularly pleasing to see some young faces in the audience as the aim of the event was to help inspire women as well as promoting positive change in our communities.

“All of the participants seemed to thoroughly enjoy the event, which celebrated the achievements of women whilst bringing them together and giving them easy access to important information on subjects like domestic violence, rape and mental health.

“We are fortunate to have a wide range of services and support available in East Dunbartonshire and this was a great way to let people know what is out there.

“I would like to thank all our partners for making the day such a great success.”

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