Over 1000 participants will form a sea of purple and converge on the Darwin CBD on Saturday to join the 2021 International Women’s Day Walk and Celebrations.
It is the 12th year that City of Darwin has supported an International Women’s Day event celebrating the outstanding achievements of local women and creating a more collaborative, inclusive and connected community.
The event runs from 8.30 – 11am in Civic Park. Following a Welcome to country smoking ceremony, the walk commences at 9am through the CBD and Smith St Mall led by the Darwin City Brass Band. It is a short 10-15 minute walk.
Participants are encouraged to wear purple, BYO water bottle and banners. During the event they’ll be sharing their photos and stories using hashtags #IWDNT and #ChoosetoChallenge
This year’s theme is “Women in Leadership – Achieving an equal future in a COVID-19 world”.
Guest speakers will reflects on aspects of the theme including Abigail Trewin, Director Disaster Preparedness and Response, and the AUSMAT Mission Lead for the Howard Springs International Quarantine.
There is a children’s area with the Fun Bus, a special Storytime session and face painting.
There are a number of information stalls from local women’s services providers.
The MC is Danielle Andrews, and local singer Prayer Corby will perform in the marquee after the formalities have ended.
There is free bus travel on the urban bus network for those who show a 2021 IWD event flyer.
There will be coffee, ice cream, bush tea and cookies for purchase.
City of Darwin Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis said Council has been a proud supporter of the event since it began in Darwin in 2009 with 100 participants.
“It’s great to see more and more participants from the community joining in. The event promotes gender equality and is a fantastic celebration of women in the Darwin community,” Mr Vatskalis said.
Northern Territory Government Minister for Women, Lauren Moss said International Women’s Day is an opportunity to reflect on all the women who have come before us and the path which still needs to be travelled.
“This International Women’s Day we celebrate the contribution of women in the Territory and for each of us to acknowledge and celebrate the women in our lives. There are a range of events happening across the NT and I encourage Territorians to get involved,” Minister Moss said.
United Nations Association of Australia Northern Territory Division President Kate Walker said the UN’s Generation Equality campaign calls for women’s access to decision making in all areas of life.
“Small actions can make big impacts to make this vision a reality. Come down to Civic Park on Saturday and talk to us about how you can play a role,” Ms Walker said.
