Supporting International Women's Day

South Tyneside Council is supporting calls for a more equitable world as it marks International Women's Day tomorrow (Wednesday 8 March).

International Women's Day is a global movement which celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. It also marks a call to action for accelerating women's equality and encouraging more people to commit to help forge an inclusive world.

The theme for this year is #EmbraceEquity, recognising the importance of giving everyone what they need to be successful.

To mark the day, South Shields Town Hall will be lit up purple.

The Mayor of South Tyneside, Councillor Pat Hay said: "International Women's Day is an important day that connects women all over the world calling out gender stereotypes and discrimination in everyday life.

"This year's theme #EmbraceEquity also aims to spark conversations and get people thinking about how equal opportunities are simply no longer enough. Moving beyond equality, the theme acknowledges that each person has different circumstances and experiences and recognises that people need different support and opportunities to be able to achieve equality."

The IWD movement traditionally celebrates the achievements of women, past, present and future.

South Tyneside Council continues to hail an all-women leadership team as well as a female Mayor and Mayoress in office. South Tyneside is also represented in national government by two female MPS in the South Shields and Jarrow constituencies. A female also holds the position of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Northumbria.

This year, the Council is using International Women's Day to launch its own employee-led Women's Network to champion women's issues across its workforce, from the support available during pregnancy or menopause to those with caring responsibilities or needing flexible working.

Councillor Ruth Berkley, Lead Member for Voluntary Sector Partnerships and Equalities, said: "Through campaigns such as International Women's Day we can help to inspire women of all ages and backgrounds to be all that they can be. By embracing equity, we can help to give everyone the tools and support they need to achieve their full potential regardless of their gender.

"We are also incredibly proud of what women have achieved in South Tyneside. Whether in government, sports, business or culture, there are many wonderful strong, confident local women, striving to make a significant difference to the lives of the people in our Borough and beyond every day.

International Women's Day (IWD) is celebrated on 8 March every year. It has occurred for well over a century with the first IWD gathering in 1922 supported by over a million people.

Men and women alike can support this year's International Women's Day. For further information about International Women's Day visit www.internationalwomensday.com