03.03.2017
Hundreds of women from across Scotland will come together to celebrate International Women’s Day at the Scottish Parliament this weekend.
The theme of this year’s event is ‘Empowering Women’ and will include an array of inspirational speakers, including First Minister of Scotland, the Rt Hon Nicola Sturgeon MSP, Glasgow Girl Roza Salih, Agnes Tolmie Chair of the Scottish Women’s Convention, Veronica Fernandez Mendez from UNI Global Union, Very Rev Dr. Lorna Hood, former Moderator of the Church of Scotland and comedian Susan MorrisoThe Scottish Women’s Convention event at the Scottish Parliament, which is now in its twelfth year, will highlight the economic, political and social achievements of women past, present and future. The event will also include a live Q&A session with the speakers in the Debating Chamber.
Deputy Presiding Officer Linda Fabiani MSP, who will chair the event, said:
“We’re honoured to be welcoming nearly 400 women from diverse backgrounds to the Scottish Parliament for International Women’s Day.
“Not only does the event at the Scottish Parliament provide a platform to share stories of inspirational women, it’s also an important opportunity to challenge inequalities.
"Across the world, there are increasingly more women decision makers than ever before but there’s still so much more we can do. That’s why events like this are crucial in creating positive change and empowering women both in Scotland and worldwide.”
Scottish Women’s Convention Chair, Agnes Tolmie, said:
“Issues that confront women on a daily basis cannot be tackled unless policy and decision makers listen to and take action on women’s views, experiences and ideas.
“The SWC facilitates events throughout Scotland which bring women together to discuss issues such as childcare, education, employment, health and transport.
“Women need to have their voices heard and see change in their communities. This event will recognise and celebrate what women can accomplish when working together.”
Background
International Women's Day has been observed since the early 1900s and is celebrated around the world on March 8. The Scottish Parliament has held an event to mark International Women’s Day every year since 2005.