By GEORGIA WESTGARTH
A PANEL of three Casey women had everyone thinking at this year’s International Women’s Day (IWD) Casey Multi-faith Network event.
‘Pledge For Parity’ was the worldwide theme on Tuesday 8 March, but Casey locals touched on ways families can empower their daughters, wives and girlfriends even more.
Panellists, Casey multi-faith network president, Stephanie Saunders, Elaine Smith from the Victorian Immigrant and Refugee Women’s Coalition and Amena Ziard, a student at Monash University spoke on different issues affecting women of today.
Secretary of the Casey multi-faith network, Naureen Choudhry said the warm and positive energy in the room was inspirational.
“We had more than 80 people from all walks of life asking questions to the panel and we also had Year 11 students from Nossal High School present,” Ms Choudhry said.
“It was fantastic to hear people’s passionate views on women’s issues and the future of women’s equality.”
Narre Warren North, international relations student Amena explained why she identifies as a feminist and how her early life in a male dominated, Saudi Arabia instilled in her a sense of resilience.
Ms Saunders reminded the audience of the repercussions of sexualising women, expressing her distaste in men calling her names such as ‘darling’.
“We need to be mindful of the terminology we use to address women, as casually calling them darling can sexualise them,” Ms Saunders said.
Member of the Hampton Park women’s friendship cafe, Eileen Smith, articulated the importance of providing a safe community environment for women of culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds.
Stating that her vision for Australia is one where people of all backgrounds can get along with one another and lend a helping hand.
Casey Inspector Paul Breen was also present at the inaugural Casey IWD forum along with guest speaker Freda Miriklis, Co-Chair of Commonwealth Businesswomen’s Network who spoke on advancing women in society and business.
