What’s happening?
Women on Wednesdays – or WoW is having its launch on Wednesday, Feb. 21 from 7 to 10 p.m. at River Market, 810 Quayside Dr. The event features a drop-in between 7 and 10 p.m. and featured speaker Morgane Oger at 7:30 p.m. Women will be able to find out more about WoW and share ideas about women in local government and community leadership. Childminding and rides to the event are available.
What is WoW about?
WoW is designed to be a space where women can gather and strengthen their participation in the democratic process. It’s based on principles of intersectional feminism, reconciliation, diversity, inclusivity and accessibility.
“In all the relationships we are part of, whatever roles we play in the workplace and community, we have more influence than we realize,” said Edith Tazumi, a member of the organizing committee. “We want to provide a supportive environment for women to be themselves in who we are and what we do.”
Who can attend?
The event is open to women and non-binary people, as well as their dependents. The group seeks to be inclusive of all women with diverse backgrounds and experiences, particularly those who have traditionally been excluded due to various systemic barriers that continue to exist and be perpetuated.
“I love meeting with other women in my community and finding out what they believe is working or not working in our society. I want to work with those women towards positive change,” said Eden Patten, a member of the organizing committee. “Women are powerful, especially when they work together. WoW’s aim is to harness that power and use it for positive change.”
What happens after this month’s launch?
The Feb. 21 launch party will be followed by monthly meetings, with topics of future meetings and events to be discussed at the launch party. Participants will try to find opportunity for all women to develop and practise their leadership strengths and style, find answer to questions about how government – particularly municipal government – works; and strategize for participating in local government, such as running for office, bringing a delegation to city council, joining a committee or board or advocating in the community. They’ll also work together to creatively come up ways to solve issues and address barriers.
“The introduction of WoW into our community is both long overdue and greatly appreciated,” said Gurveen Dhaliwal, another member of the organizing committee. “The goals of this organization align with my values and I’m so thrilled to be taking part in empowering and supporting women from all different backgrounds. Here’s hoping women who have wanted to actively engage with their community take advantage of the time and space WoW has carved out for them, looking forward to building connections and meetings some new faces.”
More info?
If you need more information – or a ride to the event or child-minding – contact organizers via the Women on Wednesdays Launch Party page on Facebook.
