Local 1000A member Frank Mensah brought along a special guest to the 2011 International Women’s Day celebrations in downtown Toronto: his 11-year-old daughter, Trinity Jeffcott. Mensah and Jeffcott were among the strong Local 1000A contingent who marched in the annual rally.
“She is the future,” Mensah said. “I wanted her to learn about the history of the women’s movement, and the strength of those who struggled for women’srights over the years.” While International Women’s Day is March 8, the event was held on March 12 to accommodate workers.
Hundreds participated in the event, which began with a rally at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education building and ended at Ryerson University.
Marked in several countries around the world, the day celebrates the economic, political and social achievements of women past, present and future.
Corinne Muccilli, a Local 1000A activist and a WIN (Women’s Issues Network) Executive member, came to the march with her husband and fellow Local 1000A activist, Martin Franchi. “This event is about creating awareness,” said Muccilli. “People think things have changed because it’s the 21st century but in reality, there are plenty of glass ceilings out there, particularly with women in leadership positions.” Franchi said he wanted to support the women of Local 1000A and to raise awareness about women’s issues.
Local 1000A activist Glacier Samuel brought her eight-year-old daughter, Simone Samuel, to the event. The pair, wearing matching Rosie the Riveter headscarves, marched together through downtown Toronto.
“I am here for my daughter,” Samuel said. “I want her to be confident and know her worth.” Although progress has been made, Samuel also noted “we still have a long road ahead.”
