NEWS RELEASE
WOMEN AND CHILDREN'S SHELTER OF BARRIE
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Women and Children’s Shelter of Barrie (WCSB) will once again host a virtual event for 2022 International Women's Day Empowerment Luncheon on Tuesday, March 8.
This year will feature a live presentation from keynote speaker, Rose Pellar, followed by a moderated Q-and-A discussion. Rose Pellar is a life change coach and divorce lawyer with JMS Law in Barrie.
In a world where women still face bias and other barriers at work, on top of bearing the disproportionate burden of the COVID-19 pandemic — having a safe space for women to share their struggles, give and get advice, and celebrate each other’s wins — has never been more important.
Everywhere, gender is on the mainstream radar and impacting the narrative. Stereotypes, discrimination and bias are more likely to be called out. Men's role in society is more varied and gender roles are more fluid.
“We are moving to a very exciting time in history where the world now expects diversity, equity and inclusion. The world notices its absence and celebrates its presence.” said Teresa MacLennan, WCSB’s executive director. “Now we must step up and be aware of the significant impact that bias has on women's equality, both conscious and unconscious bias. We need to recognize it, and call it out.”
The theme this year is #BreakTheBias, with a focus on supporting and inspiring women as they move to a more proactive state, and into a mindset where they can re-imagine what is possible. As such, the presentation aims to motivate women to take charge of their lives, and to strike forward on the path to re-writing the story of their lives.
Proceeds will directly help women and children in our community recover and rebuild their lives after fleeing violence through many programs, counselling and of course, safe and affordable housing.
The Empowerment Luncheon is on Tuesday, March 8, 2022 from 11:45 a.m. until 1 p.m. with the keynote beginning at noon. Tickets and more info is available at barrieshelter.com/events or Eventbrite. The community is invited to post a #BreakTheBias picture on social by calling out gender bias, discrimination and stereotype.
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