On Sunday, March 6th, 2022, the IAM joined celebrations and showed support for the Peel Regional Labour Council’s International Women’s Day fundraising event. Given the especially difficult time women have faced during the pandemic, fundraising efforts supported Armagh House, Hope 24/7, Embrave, and Queen Youth shelter, all essential services in our community for women. Organizations like these are a lifeline for victims of gender violence, which has significantly increased during the pandemic.
The IAM was a Bronze Sponsor this year, in addition to donating a round-trip travel voucher from Air Canada as an auction item, generously donated by District Lodge 140. “Despite our organization being a smaller player in the labour movement, we punch well above our weight on a number fronts, and this event was no exception”, David Chartrand, General Vice President of Canada, remarked. The GVP went on to say that, “IAM Sisters showed our organization’s spirit of solidarity and unity, and it’s encouraging to see our Sisters in action.”
Not only is the event an opportunity to celebrate sisterhood, and women’s accomplishments, but the event also sheds light on important issues. Presenters this year shared their experience and knowledge about human trafficking, offering insight and information about resources. Our women’s committees were quick to offer support and take the issue of raising awareness through their committees. “It was great to see members quickly jump into action and lend their support. It really speaks to the activism of our Sisters” said Ivana Saula, Research Director and Women and Human Rights Representative.
As we celebrate many hard-won battles, and solidarity that made those victories possible, we are mindful of the challenges that lie ahead. The road may be long, and women have long learnt to persevere, so we remember the words of Maya Angelou, “we may encounter many defeats, but we must not be defeated.”
