Local news delivered daily to your email inbox. Subscribe for FREE to the rdnewsNOW newsletter.

Women’s March happening in Red Deer for the first time

Feb 22, 2019 | 11:31 AM

Next month, a Women’s March will take place in Red Deer for the first time.

The event is happening March 9 in recognition of International Women’s Day (March 8). It is being organized by the Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre, the Red Deer Welcoming and Inclusive Communities Network, and the Central Alberta Immigrant Women’s Association.

“The theme for Red Deer Women’s March is women healing communities. Women have always been the heart of healing communities, peacebuilding and a visible force for positive change,” said Sadia Khan, march organizer.

“We must equip and empower the women, especially the younger generation to be a catalyst for change.”

The march will begin at 11 a.m. at CAIWA’s Club Cafe (5019 Ross Street) with a pre-gathering and smudge, then it will wind through the downtown core before returning to the cafe for a potluck.

Organizers say those of all cultures, abilities, ages, races, and gender identities are welcome.

The goal and messaging of the march aligns with Women’s March Canada, which states that women, men, and gender non-conforming people of all backgrounds are deserving of equality, justice, freedom and inclusion.

“We will continue to embody these principles to amplify and activate issues using education, mobilization, dialogue engagement and collective action,” said Khan.

“As women, we fight across time and space against all forms of discrimination, exclusion, marginalization, violence and lack of equal opportunities. This march is an opportunity to reflect, rejoice and recharge together in community with amazing women to amplify awareness and dialogue.”

Those who do attend are also encouraged to bring signage.

To help with that, a poster making party is being held from 2-5 p.m. on March 3 at Troubled Monk.

The Women’s March movement was inspired by the original Women’s March on Washington which took place Jan 21-22, 2017 in the US capital. Other walks have taken place across Canada to coincide with that anniversary, and with International Women’s Day.

In addition to the Women’s March, there are a number of other events happening to honour International Women’s Day.

On March 6, the Secret Marathon 3K run is being held in Red Deer for the first time to highlight the struggle for females in Afghanistan. More details here.

On March 7, Soroptomist International of Central Alberta will hold their annual awards dinner at the Black Knight Inn. Tickets are available on Eventbrite and must be purchased by March 1.

On March 8, at the Hub on Ross, the International Women’s Day concert gets going at 7 p.m. There will be performances by the likes of Randi Boulton, Justine Vandergrift, Liz Stevens and Erin Kay. Admission is by donation, with proceeds going to the Central Alberta Immigrant Women’s Association.

Also on March 8, Undercurrent Brewing in Sylvan Lake is hosting a fundraising event to benefit Dress For Success. Tickets are available on Eventbrite.