CQU Vice-Chancellor Glenice Hancock joined 30 other CQU Mackay staff at a luncheon celebrating International Womens’ Day on March 7.

The luncheon’s host and CQU Education lecturer Cecily Knight highlighted the importance of promoting non-violence at global, societal and personal levels.

“Non-violence was a logical sub-theme of this year’s Queensland theme ‘Smart women on the move’,” she said. “Women’s concern for humanity means we are concerned for peace at a global level, especially in the current world situation. We are concerned about promoting positive mental health at a societal level by supporting lifestyle choices for people.” “We need more family-friendly workplaces and policies. We need to make children a higher priority in society. This means valuing parenting and the special role of women in that.” “At a personal level, non-violence means self-kindness. Not being imprisoned by the ‘shoulds’ and ‘have tos’. It means being comfortable as a woman with who I am, my body and my values and allowing other women to make choices that are right for them too.” Guest of honour Professor Hancock also addressed the need for supporting non-violent environments.

Guests were presented with bookmarks, which included contemporary and historical quotes highlighting the wit and wisdom of women.

Photo caption: CQU Vice-Chancellor Professor Glenice Hancock was among those who spoke at CQU Mackay’s International Womens’ Day luncheon.

Photo caption: Lyn Forbes-Smith, Judi Parson and Trudy Schieb were among those who attended the International Womens’ Day luncheon.