Blackfriars celebrates International Women’s Day

Blackfriars is marking International Women’s Day (8 March) with a series of events celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women, as well as the significant women in their lives.

Throughout this week, students have learnt about the very real issues facing women – here in Australia and overseas – as well as honouring significant women in history and in their own lives.

Money raised via a barbecue lunch on Tuesday will be donated to Catherine House, while senior students, together with student leaders from Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College, will attend the International Women’s Day Breakfast – the largest event celebrating IWD in Australia – on Friday.

“International Women’s Day serves as a beacon in the movement for women’s rights, shining light on the achievements of women across various fields while highlighting the ongoing struggles they face in the quest for equality,” Principal David Ruggiero said.

A fundraising sausage sizzle for Catherine House was well supported by our students.

The theme for International Women’s Day 2024 is Count Her In: Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress. It is a theme that recognises the importance of including women in decision-making processes, opening pathways to women’s economic empowerment and investing in their rights and opportunities.

“The 2024 theme #CountHerIn continues to build on the momentum of previous years, emphasising the need for inclusive and sustainable progress,” Mr Ruggiero said.

“It’s a day to recognise the contributions of women to society, advocate for equal opportunities and address the systemic barriers that hinder women’s full participation in all aspects of life.

“IWD24 encourages us to work together towards a gender-equal world, reinforcing that gender equality is a fundamental human right and a necessary foundation for a peaceful, prosperous and sustainable world … the world God intended.”

Prefects Ben Baker and Daniel Mazzarolo cook the barbecue.

UN Women Australia’s Chief Executive Officer Simone Clarke said she was “struck by the incredible passion and enthusiasm of the next generation”.

“It is inspiring to witness the commitment of students and schools like yours celebrating the achievements of women and girls worldwide,” Ms Clarke said.

“I’m thrilled to see so many young people getting involved and standing up for the rights of women and girls.

“I am confident that with your continued dedication and support, we can create a future where every woman and girl has the opportunity to learn, earn and lead – accelerating progress towards a gender-equal world.”

Meanwhile, we asked some of our Prefects about the women who inspire them.

My mother is an inspirational woman to me.  Her unwavering compassion and patience with me; the fact that she always willing to work with me so I understand. She demonstrates a wisdom that I will always aspire to.

– Michael Ward

My mum inspires me because she’s always there for me, showing endless love and strength.

– Ben Baker

My mum’s dedication to hard work and sacrifice for my brother and me inspires me daily. Her endless love for me, as she always puts others first before herself, and her humble nature are things I deeply admire. 

– Daniel Mazzarolo

The most inspirational woman in my life would by my mum. She has blessed me with the knowledge, the strength, and the integrity to be where I am today.

– Daniel Song

A woman who inspires me is my mother. She is always doing her best because she loves me.

– Patrick Seal

A woman who inspires is my grandmother, because of her resilience, wisdom, and unconditional love she embodies, and for having served as an inspiration for me through my life.

– Will Campbell

Did you know?

  • Around 2.4 billion women of working age are not afforded equal economic opportunity as men.
  • Nearly 1 in 3 adolescent girls from the poorest households around the world has never been to school.
  • Only 26% of countries have a comprehensive system to track gender-budget allocations.
  • More than 342 million women and girls could be living below the poverty line by 2030.
  • Fully closing gender gaps in workplaces would add up to US$428 trillion in annual GDP by 2025.

Source: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Main image: Blackfriars female staff members

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