International Women’s Day will be commemorated globally today, 8 March, through a rich diversity of initiatives celebrating women’s achievements, opportunities and potential, while reflecting on this year’s theme of “Press for Progress”.

The Auckland Regional Migrant Services (ARMS), will be co-hosting a special event to celebrate ordinary and extraordinary women who have changed, and are changing, New Zealand’s history.

Over 120 women are expected to join the celebrations at the Mt Albert War Memorial Hall from 10.30am to 1.00pm.

The guest speakers include: Professor Edwina Pio, Professor of Diversity University Director of Diversity, AUT, Nurain Janah, Accountant at William Buck New Zealand, Denise Roche, former Green Party MP and a member of the Waitematā Local Board, Judith Mukakayange, Community Engagement Coordinator, Positive Women and Priyanca Radhakrishnan, Labour Party list MP.

ARMS’ Chief Executive, Rochana Sheward, believes that this day is to reflect on the importance of gender equality, to celebrate the successes of women, and to acknowledge the work that is still left to be done.

“As we are celebrating the 125th anniversary of women’s suffrage in New Zealand, which gave all women in New Zealand the right to vote, there is a lot more which needs to be done in order for our women to progress, socially, economically and politically, “ she added.

Ms Sheward adds, “Through our community projects, we have worked with highly motivated and inspirational women, who – despite several barriers such as language and transport – have strived to achieve their goals. We want to help these women progress further.”

Guests at the celebrations will be encouraged to sign-up to the #100womenpressforprogress campaign, which advocates for the following issues:

• Valuing women’s contribution in the labour market through equal employment opportunities

• Increasing women’s representation in leadership through grassroots training, education, and mentoring opportunities

• Improving the lives of women in employment through equal pay

• Increasing the safety of women and girls by taking a proactive advocacy and response approach to violence

After the event, a written submission will be made to the Ministry of Women with the supporting signatures.

This is a multi-agency event hosted by: Auckland Regional Migrant Services, Auckland Resettled Community Coalition, Bharitya Samaj Charitable Trust, Multi-educational Support and Services, NZ Ethnic Women’s Network Inc., NZ Red Cross, Positive Women Inc., and Shanti Niwas.

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