International Women’s Day 2008

 

Saturday, March 8, 2008 will mark the celebration of International Women’s Day which was started in the United States of America in 1911 and accepted in Canada in 1977.   This year’s theme “STRONG WOMAN, STRONG WORLD” epitomizes what the Congress of Black Women of Canada should be all about, the strengthening of Black women so as to make a significant difference in the lives of her family, community and subsequently the world at large. This is in deed a tall order for us and a daunting task for the faint of heart. However, with foresight, cooperation and focus we know that we have the capabilities to be strong and to be agents of change in our various communities.

We have explicit evidence that Black women have consistently risen to any challenge that has confronted us, whether as single mothers, struggling student, cheap unskilled labour, abused wife, hard-working achiever or invisible “other.”

We keep going because the examples of hard work, tenacity, spirituality and kinship which have been displayed   by our ancestors, sustain us whenever we are getting overwhelmed. However , in the face of all this we should not assume the role of silent Guardian for everyone, because  one thing that is certain, is the urgency  to hear and amplify the voices of Black women because too often, our needs, concerns, struggles and triumphs are diminished and subordinated to what is believed to be the pressing concerns of others. 

To this end the very existence of the Congress can enable us to take time for our personal development while assisting our Sisters in the community. 

Let us continue to redeem Kay Livingstone’s dream by striving to reach the forgotten Black women in our midst who have never heard of the Congress.

Let us reflect on how we can assist the aged, the teen-age girls, the single mothers, the unemployed and the victims of violence.

Through dedication and tenacity the Congress has maintained Kay’s vision, while taking care of families and self. We have much of which we should be proud, so as we celebrate International Women’s Day let us join hands supporting each other in our efforts.

Let us also remember to celebrate the lives of our Congress sisters who are no longer with us.

Thank you all for your hard work and support. May God continue to bless you and your families as you continue to “lift as you rise”

In Sisterhood!

Message from:  Ettie Rutherford

Ontario Provincial Rep.

Congress of Black Women of Canada