International Women's Day

Changing Climates: Equality today for a sustainable tomorrow was the United Nation's theme for International Women's Day, on Tuesday 8 March.

Poche Director, Associate Professor Shawana Andrews wrote an article on making space for Aboriginal women in academia, highlighting space to challenge, space to create and space to be. You can read the article here.

The theme recognises the contribution of women and girls across the world, who are leading the charge on climate change adaptation, mitigation, and response, to build a more sustainable future.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and knowledges are of course significant in this movement. We asked our Leadership Alumni and team members to reflect on the theme, with some responses below. You read all the responses on Twitter @UniMelbPoche.

While I see the relationships in regard to gender equality as important, as First Nation women we are not at that fight yet. The fight is more about equity and ensuring we are seated equally at every decision making table. - Lisa Shiple

International Women's Day provides us an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of the amazing women, including trans women, gender diverse and non-binary people, who have come before us and the ways that we can build on their legacy for the future of those that will come after us. It is also an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of all women and the value of their unique experiences, perspectives and contributions. - Odette Mazel

Using my voice as a First nation woman of this country, I will continue to speak out, advocate for and support the women in my community. I want to help teach our young women to stand up, stand tall, and be honest and genuine to themselves, knowing who they are and their family connection. - Lenny Papertalk

International Women's Day is an opportunity to un-silence Indigenous women's voices and to listen. It's an opportunity to hear how women are using their knowledges and lived experiences to re-imagine futures in which diversity is not only celebrated, but necessary. - Associate Professor Shawana Andrews

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