Marked annually on 8 March, International Women's Day (IWD) is a global day that celebrates the social, cultural, economic and political achievements of women.
International Women's Day aims to:
- celebrate women's achievements
- raise awareness about women's equality
- lobby for accelerated gender parity
- fundraise for female-focused charities.
The 2023 IWD theme is 'Embrace Equity'.
International Women’s Day takes on a special meaning for Greater Dandenong City Council this year.
For the first time in history Council is led by a female CEO, Mayor and Deputy Mayor, and almost half of our elected Councillors are female.
CEO Jacqui Weatherill started in the position in December 2022, just weeks after Cr Eden Foster was elected by her fellow Councillors as Mayor, and Cr Lana Formoso elected as Deputy Mayor. The trio are joined by Councillors Rhonda Garad, Angela Long and Sophie Tan.
The Mayor said International Women’s Day was about celebrating women’s strengths.
“It is also a time to challenge gender stereotypes and encourage others to call out discrimination and gender bias,” the Mayor said.
Ms Weatherill said Greater Dandenong City Council was leading by example when it came to gender equality.
“We celebrate women every day, including some amazing community members who are working hard to build a better society for all."