International Women’s Day – March 8, 2024

International Women’s Day (March 8) is a global day celebrating women’s social, economic, cultural, and political achievements and calling for action to accelerate women’s equality.

The 2024 campaign theme for International Women’s Day is Inspire Inclusion. When we inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion, we forge a better world. And when women themselves are inspired to be included, there’s a sense of belonging, relevance and empowerment. 

The Government of Canada’s theme for International Women’s Day (IWD) 2024 is Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress. It’s a call to action and a reminder that gender equality is one of the most effective ways to build healthier, more prosperous, and more inclusive communities.  We all have a role to play in building a future where everyone can reach their full potential.

On an organizational or group basis, there are many ways to ensure the needs, interests and aspirations of women and girls are valued and included.  

Organizations and groups can #InspireInclusion and #AccelerateProgress through actions such as recruiting, retaining and developing female talent. We benefit from a dynamic, diverse workforce at Grandview Kids. Based on results from our Fall 2023 Diversity and Inclusion Survey, 95% of Grandview Kids staff identify as women.  

Another way to #InspireInclusion and #AccelerateProgress is by supporting women and girls in leadership, decision-making, business, and STEM. Grandview Kids’ senior leadership team is two-thirds women, and our broader leadership team is 70% women. We are also fortunate to benefit from the time and expertise of six women on our Board of Trustees and an all-female physician group.

Here’s what some of them have to say about International Women’s Day: 

“Women worldwide contribute to the rich tapestry of diversity that defines us as Canadians, and I am incredibly proud to highlight my heritage from the Philippines. In Filipino culture, women hold a special place of honour and strength, from the fearless leaders who fought for our independence, to the nurturing caregivers who shape our families.  As Filipinx/a/os, they display resilience, grace, and unwavering courage in the diaspora. This International Women’s Day is not solely about recognizing women’s achievements but acknowledging each woman’s diversity and strength in our lives and communities. It’s about commemorating the unique perspectives, talents and experiences that enrich our world daily. In a world where obstacles still exist, and challenges persist, Grandview Kids has promoted solidarity to support gender equality and inclusion. Together, let us build a world that is more inclusive, more equitable, and more just for everyone. Maligayang Araw ng mga Kababaihan (Happy International Women’s Day)!” – Dr. Siapno, Physician  

“Grandview exemplifies a predominately female workforce making an incredible impact in the lives of families. It is my privilege to support the collective efforts of our team. Women belong where decisions are made, and the collective intelligence of our contributions will redefine our world. Celebrate the women in your life.” – Erin, Board Member and Chair of Governance Excellence Committee 

“I have been fortunate to have had many incredible women leaders to learn from and be inspired by, including here at Grandview! I strive to learn from them and share those learnings with others.” – Marika, Clinical Manager 

“When I joined the Grandview Kids Board, it was somewhat unique at the time in that there were many females participating on the Board. These women had cultivated leadership roles in both their professional and personal lives. I spoke with one of these women in my interview for the Board and feel very fortunate to have volunteered alongside many accomplished women at Grandview Kids. 

In my daily life, I am a Special Education Resource Teacher in the Durham District School Board. Equality, inclusion and diversity have long been passions of mine. When I was volunteering with Girls Inc of Durham I was asked if I was a feminist – I replied yes. This led to being asked ‘what does feminism mean to me?’ My response came easily – ‘having a choice.’ We quickly see those choices disappearing in our society today. Feminism is not only about equal rights, but also about inclusion, diversity, knowledge, understanding and respect.” – Catherine Switzer, Board Member and Chair of Priorities and Performance Committee 

“Inclusion means everyone belongs. There is power among womxn when everyone has a seat at the table.” – Taryn Eickmeier, Executive Lead, Research, Innovation and Knowledge Mobilization  

“I have been supported for years by strong, determined, and influential women in my career. I am honoured to have been recognized as a Durham Region Woman of Impact for 2024, but I share this honour with the amazing women at Grandview Kids who have mentored, supported and empowered me in the last 12 years.” – Andrea Belanger, Family Engagement Program Manager 

“I’ve been lucky to learn from many inspiring, talented, strong women leaders throughout my career. Seeing women in leadership has steadily reinforced my own trajectory toward these roles. Especially as a young woman in leadership, I have faced many obstacles in my journey, from people questioning my capabilities, to discounting my perspectives. I have transcended these barriers to establish a meaningful career, rooted in integrity and compassion. It can be tiring, but it’s necessary to drown out self-doubt, know one’s worth and self-advocate. More recently, I have had a unique experience as a woman in leadership and mother to young children – a time when balance for any working parent becomes a struggle, but with the added pressure of executive accountabilities. With the support of a caring network of family and colleagues, I have settled into a flow where home and work priorities can co-exist and evolve. Often, I have mapped my own path, but hopefully, it can serve as a blueprint to inspire others. To me, Inspiring Inclusion starts with valuing, listening to and respecting women. It means making space, challenging norms and speaking up. This is complex work. But it’s worthwhile and necessary work. It’s something I am deeply committed to as I raise my own two daughters.” – Avori Cheyne, Chief Communications Officer and Executive Lead, Strategic Communications, Partnerships and Engagement 

Here are other ways you may be able to make a difference and #InspireInclusion for women in your own life or organization: 

• designing and building infrastructure meeting the needs of women and girls 
• helping women and girls make informed decisions about their health 
• involving women and girls in sustainable agriculture and food security 
• providing women and girls with access to quality education and training 
• elevating women and girl’s participation and achievement in sport 
• promoting creative and artistic talent of women and girls 
• addressing further areas supporting the advancement of women and girls 

Where are you going to start? Let’s continue to learn from, listen to, and celebrate women. Together, we can champion a community that supports gender inclusion and is free of bias and discrimination. 

Happy International Women’s Day!