Tuesday March 8th is International Women’s Day. This year's theme is "Break the Bias"
International Women's Day explains the rationale behind this year's theme:
Imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination. A world that's diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women's equality. Collectively we can all #BreakTheBias.
Celebrate women's achievement. Raise awareness against bias. Take action for equality.
An older, but still relevant video, called "Break the Chain," was created for the One Billion Rising campaign to stop violence against women. It was produced by Eve Ensler (“The Vagina Monologues”) and V-Day, directed by Tony Stroebel, written and produced by Tena Clark with music by Tena Clark and Tim Heintz, and featuring dancer and choreographer Debbie Allen.
In Canada, Clan Mothers Healing Village is already leading the way in breaking down bias and barriers against women and girls. Clan Mothers is an Indigenous-led solution to the ongoing trauma in Indigenous communities.
The Clan Mothers are one of many inspiring Indigenous women leaders in history, such as:
Mary Greyeyes Reid, the first Indigenous woman to join Canada’s armed forces during the Second World war
Elsie Knott, the first elected female First Nations chief in Canada
Edith Monture, the first Indigenous woman to become a registered nurse in Canada and to gain the right to vote in a Canadian federal election.
Thelma Chalifoux, the first Metis woman appointed to the Senate of Canada.
Nora Bernard, a Mi’kmaq activist, who fought for compensation for residential school survivor. In 1995, Bernard founded an organization that represented survivors of Shubenacadie. They started a class action suit which other groups and associations joined and formed one national lawsuit
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