Everyone is invited to Nillumbik Shire Council’s International Women’s Day (IWD) celebrations at Eltham Community and Reception Centre on Wednesday 4 March.
A celebration of great achievements by women, the function will run from 6pm-9.30pm and includes dinner, live entertainment, a Women in Business Marketplace, networking opportunities, and a gift bag for every guest.
The 2020 IWD theme is #EachForEqual, which encourages all of us to help create a gender equal world by challenging stereotypes, fighting biases, broadening perceptions and celebrating women’s achievements.
This year’s guest speaker will be celebrated Australian author Maxine Beneba Clarke, whose fiction, non-fiction and poetry explores contemporary themes of bullying, relationships, migration, racism and environmentalism.
Feminist action group The Violet Fems, made up of students from Eltham High School, will also join the speaking panel. The group was recently awarded a grant as part of the 16 Days of Activism campaign for their installation The Catwalk, which put the spotlight on gender inequality as seen through the issue of catcalling.
Musical entertainment will be performed by local women, and the marketplace will be hosted by local women.
Mayor Karen Egan, who will MC the event, said International Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women, while also raising awareness of issues that still persist.
“There is still work to be done in the fight for gender equality and I am proud of our community for the progress we are making in this area.”
“Women drive, support and facilitate so many facets of community life in Nillumbik – from arts and culture to business, sports and volunteering. This event is a great opportunity to celebrate those achievements.”
