Every March 8, HEU links hands with the global community to celebrate women’s achievements and advocate for women’s social, economic and political equality in our workplaces, at the bargaining table, and in our communities.
And in that spirit, our union proudly joined in solidarity events throughout B.C. that supported the recent “Women’s March on Washington” on the day following U.S. President Donald Trump’s inauguration.
“It was an exciting and energizing act of international solidarity that sent a bold message around the world that citizens will not tolerate threats to our shared values of equity, human rights and social justice,” says HEU secretary-business manager Jennifer Whiteside. “And it was a powerful declaration that gender justice is also racial and economic justice.”
This year, International Women’s Day organizers – under the theme “Be Bold for Change” – are calling for worldwide action to endorse gender inclusion, particularly in the workplace. This includes bridging the gender wage gap and opening up leadership roles to women.
Since 1911, the global community has recognized International Women’s Day as a time to celebrate women’s achievements, raise awareness about women’s issues, and advocate for greater equality.
It was on March 8, 1857, when female garment workers (mostly immigrants) in New York City rallied on the streets to demand safer working conditions and equal rights for women. This public demonstration is widely credited as a turning point for women’s activism in the workplace.
That’s why HEU continues to join with other trade unions, women’s organizations and community groups to fight for gender parity, speak out against violence against women and girls, lobby for a national child care program, and promote access to leadership opportunities for women.