Yesterday CFN celebrated International Women's Day and below is a message commemorating this very important day from one of Calgary's most accomplished women, CFN CEO Anila Lee Yuen.
"Every year I reflect on what this day actually means and why we all commemorate it.
International Women's Day isn't just a day for women. It's a time for men to also reflect on women's issues and how you can help. It's a time for you to celebrate the wonderful women in your life. And for me, at least, it's a day to reflect on the men in my life, who are there for me unconditionally; to think about how I will raise the little boys and teenagers in my life to respect and honour women and girls.
To me, IWD is about celebrating all of the amazing women who make our world a better place - all of the mothers and teachers and leaders and friends. All women. All girls.
It's also about remembering that women are still not safe anywhere, including right here in Calgary. Over 50% of our homes experience family violence, with women being the ones who predominantly are hurt. We are not safe to walk alone, often in public busy spaces; especially if we are racialized, wear identifiable religious attire, or are gender diverse.
Most importantly for me, it's a time to reflect on how to create a better, stronger society for our girls. So they do not experience the violence and trauma every woman, including me, have had to endure at some point in our lives."