As we mark another International Women’s Day, I am once again blown away by the fantastic female leaders in North Grenville who enrich our quality of life and create opportunities for our youth, seniors. and everyone in between to thrive.
International Women’s Day is intended to shine the spotlight on the contributions women make every day, as care-givers, professionals, volunteers, leaders, entrepreneurs, among other things.
The origins of IWD were based upon the concept of bread and roses – that for women to truly thrive they need access to not only shelter and sustenance for themselves and their children, but also opportunities for education, recreation, leadership, and community .
We are blessed here in North Grenville to have so many workplaces, recreational organizations and service clubs that benefit from the hard work, creativity and dedication of women from all walks of life, backgrounds and skills sets. We know these women sometimes work in the background, not always fully recognized or celebrated – but without whom our community would not nearly be the same.
As women in business, the trades, education, health care, public safety, and emergency preparedness , the arts, and so many other sectors, I am immensely proud that so many of them have chosen to call North Grenville home. We recognize the strength and resilience they bring, and that amidst many challenges, they show up for themselves, their families, and communities every day.
As women, it is sometimes tempting to believe that other women may be doing it better, or have it easier, but I have come to realize we all at one time or another struggle with self doubt, too much on the to-do list, fatigue, and fear. This is part of the human experience.
But at the end of the day, what matters is that we give each other the support and solidarity to make an impact, whatever that looks like for each of us, and that we give ourselves and others permission to rest when a little down time is required, or it is time to go down a different path.
Here’s to a great International Women’s Day! I hope to see you and your loved ones at North Grenville’s IWD event from Friday March 8 from 4- 6 pm at the NG Municipal Centre! Kids, spouses, colleagues and friends welcome!
