Unions back International Women’s Day events

CTU Unions Manawatu are taking part in Te Manawa Wahine o te Ao event taking place in Palmerston North on International Women’s Day on Friday 8 March.

International Women’s Day is commemorated throughout the world and this year the focus is the elimination of violence against women.

Spokesperson for the CTU Unions Manawatu group, Lyn Olsthoorn says, “There is huge surge of activity nationally and internationally. Tragically it has been triggered by incidents of horrendous violence against women, but the reaction and solidarity by women all over the globe is fantastic and there is cause for hope.”

“Our event has a focus on eliminating violence against women with a multicultural peace parade to mark the importance of this. There are stalls, speakers and lots of arts, song, dance and cultural performances.”

Union organiser Lynn Wiliams says, “CTU Unions Manawatu is proud to be part of this community event. Unions are strong and active supporters of local community organisations.”

“Unions also play an important role in eliminating violence. Workplace programmes help educate and inform union members about the need to prevent violence so that women and girls can be safe in their families and communities,” Williams says.

Te Manawa Wahine o te Ao begins with a Peace March at midday from Te Manawa Mueum, 326 Main Street, Palmerston North. More information about the event can be found here: http://www.temanawa.co.nz/whats-on-in-march,listing,216,international-womens-day-whine-o-te-ao.html.

ENDS

For other International Women’s Day events see: http://www.unifem.org.nz/?page_id=309

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