SMU International Women's Day Gala 2020

Written by: Asia Outten

@asiaoutten

Photo by: realsimple.com

International Women’s Day was on Sunday, March 8, 2020. On this day, women all around the world are celebrated for their many achievements, and it also symbolizes women’s efforts for gender equality.

On International Women’s Day, Saint Mary’s University held its annual International Women’s Day Gala in Loyola 290 from the hours of 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm to join in the celebration of women. The gala was conducted by the SMU Women’s Centre and was moderated by Sophie Slessor, a coordinator at the Women’s Centre. Sophie, along with other coordinators and volunteers at the centre, did an excellent job at organizing and hosting the gala.

The night consisted of hors d’oeuvres, drinks, laughter and sharing of ideas amidst the amiable crowd of people who were there. There were also live performances by some of the young and talented women who attend Saint Mary’s University. They each presented their unique talents and hobbies which included singing, dancing, poetry, and more. The most admirable quality some of these women had was their ability to get up on stage and share their experiences and the strength it takes to be a woman; as well as some encouraging words to everyone present, especially the women.

Among the number of people present and showing their support for women was the President of Saint Mary’s University, Dr Robert Summerby-Murray; Bryn de Chastelain, soon-to-be President of SMUSA; and current President of SMUSA Mary Navas.

Nearing the end of the night, everyone gathered around as Mary gave a compelling account of her experiences and what it was like growing up as a woman in Honduras, where the gender binary roles were strict and traditional. The main takeaway from her story was to fight, persevere, never to give up, and most importantly, to prove people wrong when they doubt you. “Once you fight (and you’re probably going to lose once, twice, ten thousand times) … you keep persevering, and then you never give up, and then you prove everyone wrong,” said Mary.

This amazing gala in celebration of International Women’s Day highlighted the power, excellence, creativity and diligence of women all around the world and here on our campus. However, it is essential to remember to take the necessary action to encourage and support women every day as we continue in our stride for much deserving gender equality.