Merton Council marks International Women’s Day 2022, a global event which celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women, which takes place on 8 March.
This year’s theme is BreakTheBias, when you are invited to imagine ‘a gender equal world, free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. That is diverse, equitable, and inclusive. Where difference is valued and celebrated.’
Deliberate or unconscious bias is a problem women face every day, in every facet of their lives. Just acknowledging bias isn’t enough; we must take action to ensure women engage in a fair world every day. We must all actively call out gender bias, discrimination and stereotyping wherever we see it.
As well as looking to the future and seeking a better present, International Women’s Day also offers an opportunity to look back, remembering those such as the suffragettes who campaigned and won the vote for women over a century.
One of those, Rose Lamartine Yates, was a resident of Merton who also was known as social justice campaigner in the borough and nationally. Merton Council are working with partners to restore her one-time home, Dorset Hall, to become a hub for the local community.
Our leisure centres in Morden, Wimbledon and the Canons, Mitcham, are celebrating International Women’s Day with activities including yoga, Zumba and aqua aerobics.
There will be a free hot drink and a gym pass on offer for women visiting Morden Leisure Centre and a women’s pamper party at Wimbledon leisure centre. For details, visit their site.
Among other activities around International Women’s Day, our colleagues at Healthwatch Merton, your local consumer champion for health and social care, have laid on a series of events.
Coaching Nuggets of Wisdom, with a Personal Twist
https://www.mertonconnected.co.uk/mcevents/1062/international-women’s-day:-general
Hormones, Embrace the Change
https://www.mertonconnected.co.uk/mcevents/1064/international-women’s-day:-hormones
Breathing techniques and online YOGA, Marina Caroli, Social Prescriber
https://www.mertonconnected.co.uk/mcevents/1065/international-women’s-day:-breathing
Surviving Abuse
https://www.mertonconnected.co.uk/mcevents/1067/international-women’s-day:-surviving
Feminist Family (Parent Coaching) Erin Cowhig-Croft, Healthwatch Merton
https://www.mertonconnected.co.uk/mcevents/1068/international-women’s-day:-parenting
Cllr Marsie Skeete, Cabinet Member for Women and Equalities, said: “International Women’s Day is a time to reflect upon the achievements that we have made over the years – as the work of Rose Lamartine Yates reminds us, it’s been little more than a century that women gained the vote in the UK.
“But more importantly, it’s a day to look at the here and now, and to the future. We do have a more gender-equal world now, but there is still a long way to go in every field, individually and collectively. There remain massive issues in society to tackle, especially around women’s safety and security.
“Like everyone, I want to see a world of true gender equality for all today’s children, and I hope that is a future that is getting closer every day. Hopefully, this International Women’s Day we can work together to bring that vision closer.”