Choose to challenge on International Women’s Day

“Choose to Challenge” gender stereotypes this International Women’s Day by joining Brimbank City Council’s live stream online panel discussion.

International Women’s Day on Monday 8 March 2021 celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women around the world.

This year the theme is “Choose to Challenge” – with communities invited to celebrate women’s achievement, raise awareness against bias and take action for equality.

Brimbank will celebrate International Women’s Day with an online event, on Wednesday 10 March at 3pm – where audiences can listen to a panel of four leaders discuss their experiences of challenging gender stereotypes.

The panel will include:

  • Brimbank Mayor Cr Ranka Rasic
  • Aboriginal Elder & Brimbank Citizen of the Year Aunty Joyce Cooper
  • Victoria University Lecturer in Community, College of Health & Biomedicine Dr Mimmie Watts
  • Green Empire Street owner and entrepreneur Darlene Ladio.

Panel discussion

When: Wednesday 10 March, 3-4.30pm

Details: Brimbank Internaltional Womens Day 2021 Event

Film screening

Enjoy an online film screening of CODED BIAS, which explores the fallout of MIT Media Lab researcher Joy Buolamwini’s discovery that most facial-recognition software doesn’t accurately identify darker-skinned faces and the faces of women. CODED BIAS is presented by Brimbank City Council as a part of the Taking the Lead Film Festival.

When: From 8am on Tuesday 9 March to 8am on Wednesday 10 March.

Registrations essential: https://pvawhub.whwest.org.au/takingtheleadfilmfestival/

Quotes attributable to Brimbank Mayor, Cr Ranka Rasic

“I am so proud to be Mayor of a Council which includes eight women Councillors.

“As a progressive woman in politics, the advancement of female representation across all levels of government and sectors is a huge passion of mine.

“As a young migrant who came to Australia in the 90s, I would love to see even more people share my vision of greater female representation.

“My journey to becoming both a small business owner and local representative has taught me the hardship women face on the path to success. I hope to be a voice of inspiration to all women of all backgrounds and support them on their journey.

“Gender equality is important for the entire community. We know that workplaces and communities thrive in a society where men and women are treated equally.

“Brimbank Council lives out its commitment to gender equity in several ways, including advocating for change, partnering with other organisations, and supporting those who are working for positive change in the community.

“Guided by our Fairness, Equality and Respect Strategy 2019-2023, Brimbank Council chooses to challenge through programs supporting women’s participation in sport, health and wellbeing, challenge rigid gender roles and help prevent violence against women.

“Brimbank City Council will continue working with our communities and our staff to break down gender barriers, change attitudes and improve gender equality.”

/Public Release. View in full here.