Communities throughout the Shenandoah Valley are celebrating International Women's Day this weekend. WMRA's Randi B. Hagi reports.
This Saturday, March 9th, the public is invited to gather at Harrisonburg's City Hall at 10 a.m. and march to Court Square in celebration of women's achievements and empowerment. There will be music, poetry, and speakers on the square.
Blen Alemu serves on the International Women's Day planning committee. She came to Harrisonburg from Ethiopia two years ago.
BLEN ALEMU: I am very passionate about women's empowerment and gender equality, so being part of this committee allows me to be with a lot of women who are from different experiences and to celebrate the achievements of women and hear their challenges.
Fellow committee member Monique Tshibola came here from the Democratic Republic of the Congo 10 years ago to study at Eastern Mennonite University. She said women's empowerment is close to her heart because she grew up in a culture where women were expected to marry young instead of pursuing their education and dreams.
MONIQUE TSHIBOLA: The march serves as a powerful platform to advocate for gender equality and women's rights. So, by doing so, we raise awareness of the ongoing struggle and challenges faced by women worldwide, including issues such as gender-based violence, discrimination, and unequal access to opportunities.
Downtown Waynesboro will celebrate Valley Women's Weekend on Friday with a variety of activities, including sound baths and historical displays. Then, Staunton observes Queen City Women's Day on Saturday with music, art vendors, and downtown business specials.
