By Shazia Nazir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Milton Reporter
International Women’s Day, observed globally on March 8, highlights the urgent need to address the systemic barriers and biases women face in their personal and professional lives.
The theme for 2025, Accelerate Action, calls for swift and decisive steps toward achieving gender equality.
While challenges persist, the day serves as a reminder of the progress that can be made through collective efforts and support.
In Milton and the Halton region, various organizations and groups are marking the occasion with events throughout the month of March.
On March 6, Halton Women’s Place hosted its 14th annual International Women’s Day luncheon at the Holiday Inn Burlington. The event featured Dr. Samra Zafar as the guest speaker.
Zafar, an award-winning author and advocate for gender equity, shared her journey from surviving an abusive child marriage to becoming a global voice for inclusion and wellness.
Her bestselling memoir, A Good Wife: Escaping the Life I Never Chose, reflects on her experiences and highlights issues of gender-based oppression.
Throughout March, the Milton Public Library has partnered with Help A Girl Out (HAGO) Canada for a donation drive to support individuals facing period poverty.
Collection bins at the library’s Main, Sherwood, and Beaty branches are accepting menstrual products. HAGO, founded by Yanique Brandford, aims to improve access to hygiene products and reduce the stigma around menstruation.
The Women of Halton Action Movement (WHAM) celebrated their 22nd annual International Women’s Day Dinner Party on March 5 at the Oakville Conference & Banquet Centre, raising awareness and support for Right to Learn Afghanistan and SAVIS.
The event featured keynote speaker Nicole Rakowski, an entrepreneur and PhD candidate in Health Management. Rakowski, who has inspired thousands worldwide with her journey of overcoming a life-altering accident, shared her powerful story of resilience and empowerment.
In addition to Rakowski’s address, Dr. Lauryn Oates, Executive Director of Right to Learn, also delivered a speech, highlighting the organization’s work advocating for educational access for girls in Afghanistan.
The evening celebrated the achievements and resilience of women in the community while also shining a light on the ongoing efforts to support global education and local initiatives for women’s safety.
On March 9, the Halton Region Small Business Centre will host Connect, Teach, Inspire, a networking event for women entrepreneurs at the OE Banquet Hall & Conference Centre in Oakville.
The event offers local women business leaders an opportunity to network, learn, and share experiences.
In celebration of International Women’s Day, Halton Region is recognizing the women who play key roles in delivering essential services to the community.
Throughout the week, the region has spotlighted women leading various departments, including housing, water services, waste management, information technology, and emergency medical services. Their work is vital in ensuring the community continues to thrive.
“International Women’s Day celebrates the social, political, economic, and cultural achievements of women around the globe,” said Halton Regional Chair Gary Carr. “Halton is committed to helping local entrepreneurs succeed through events like Connect, Teach, Inspire.”
Milton also hosted its annual International Women’s Day march on March 6, starting at Hugh Foster Hall. The march, which began in 2017, continues to grow each year, raising awareness about gender equality.
Milton MPP Zee Hamid honoured Lynn Franklin and Kathy Sellers, who started the event, with Provincial Congratulatory Scrolls for their community contributions. “Lynn and Kathy have made a lasting impact, and their efforts have made the Milton march a yearly tradition,” said Hamid.
First declared by the United Nations in 1977, International Women’s Day traces its roots to labour movements in North America and Europe in 1911. Over a century later, the day remains a powerful global movement recognizing the progress women have made and the challenges that remain.
“This day, we celebrate the incredible strength, resilience, and achievements of women around the world,” said Hamid.
“Let’s honour the women who have shaped history and those who continue to fight for equality and justice.”
Milton and Halton residents are encouraged to take part in the region’s events, support local women-led initiatives, and commit to accelerating action toward gender equality.
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