Peaceful celebration at CQU Mackay
Published on 07 March, 2006
The theme for International Women’s Day this Wednesday March 8 was ‘Women striving for a peaceful society’.
To mark the occasion Central Queensland University (CQU) Mackay hosted a free lunchtime barbecue outside the Library, with guest speaker Heather Nancarrow, Director of the QLD Centre for Domestic and Family Violence Research (CDFVR).
Cecily Knight, Sub-Dean of Arts, Humanities and Education, introduced Heather and spoke about the number of female role models who strive to make a difference and to foster peace in today’s society. From Dr Fiona Wood, who was named as Australian of the Year in 2005, to everyday role models like our mothers, sisters, teachers and work colleagues.
Cecily then introduced guest speaker Heather; one of many women whose daily work life involves the pursuit of a more peaceful society.
Heather spoke of the greater equality that women in today’s society experience, but also touched on the lesser role of women in decision making roles within our society, and the need for reminders such as 'International Women’s Day' to be maintained.
The first International Women’s Day in Australia was held in Sydney on 25 March 1928 and then, in 1977, the United Nations (UN) proclaimed 8 March each year the UN Day for Women’s Rights and International Peace.
The colours for International Women’s Day are white for purity; purple for dignity, self-reverence and self-respect; and green for hope and new life. The three colours have become a visual cue for the women’s movement in Australia and are worn on International Women’s Day and used for other women’s movement banners and posters.
International Women’s Day also coincided with the CQU Student Association’s UniMart, held in the campus Refectory. A broad cross-section of local businesses and community groups visited the campus to talk to students about the services they have on offer. There was also a Beach Volleyball demonstration and a Beat Box competition.
Photo above: Guest speaker at CQU Mackay’s International Women’s Day celebration was Heather Nancarrow, Director of the QLD Centre for Domestic and Family Violence Research.
Photo left: CQU Mackay’s International Women’s Day celebration was well attended by staff and students.