TORONTO, March 8, 2023 – Across the province, Ontario’s universities are celebrating International Women’s Day through a series of events that bring together students, faculty, staff and community members to promote the social, economic and political achievements of women, as well as raise awareness about gender equity needs.
By working together with members from the university and local communities, Ontario’s universities remain committed to supporting women students, faculty and staff, and continuing to celebrate their achievements.
Below are just some of the many ways Ontario’s universities are strengthening equity on campus and in their local communities this International Women’s Day:
Algoma University
Through the “Recognize a Woman” initiative, Algoma University is celebrating the positive influence and contributions of its women staff members by offering students, faculty and staff the opportunity to send a message of recognition to a woman who works for Algoma University that has had a positive influence in their lives.
Brock University
With the goal of amplifying the perspectives of Indigenous women and inspiring individuals with practical advice on how to mobilize trauma as strength and transform it into triumph, Robyn Bourgeois, Vice-Provost, Indigenous Engagement, will share her leadership journey as part of Brock University’s International Women’s Day celebrations. The online session, “From Trauma to Triumph: An Indigenous Perspective,” will highlight Bourgeois’ leadership success and help expand professional development for the community and its aspiring and experienced leaders.
Carleton University
To celebrate the leadership, achievements, positive change and hard work of women students, faculty, instructors and staff, Carleton University is creating an online recognition board that will showcase submitted messages that recognize the accomplishments and contributions of women in the Carleton community.
University of Guelph
With a focus on interdisciplinary research related to the challenges faced by underrepresented and marginalized individuals, the University of Guelph’s free, hybrid conference, “Honouring International Women’s Day 2023: Research, Recognize & Reimagine!” includes keynote discussions and student research presentations that address topics that impact women and girls.
Lakehead University
To celebrate women’s achievements and raise awareness about gender equity and equal opportunity, Lakehead University is hosting an International Women’s Day drop-in at its International Lounge.
Laurentian University
Through a series of online and in-person events, Laurentian University is recognizing International Women’s Day, as well as International Women’s Week, campus-wide from March 6-10. Events include a book reading, presentations and a keynote panel on topics that aim to empower women across the campus community.
McMaster University
In celebration of International Women’s Day, McMaster University’s student, faculty and alumni-led Academic Women’s Success and Mentorship Committee is hosting a fireside chat featuring Dr. Sonia Anand and The Honourable Anita Anand.
Nipissing University
A film screening and networking event that aims to bring awareness to violence against women is open to members of Nipissing University’s campus and local community. Through a partnership between Nipissing’s School of Social Work, the Nipissing Violence Against Women Coordinating Committee and the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unity, the screening will be followed by a panel discussion with students, faculty and local experts to deepen and expand conversations initiated by the film.
OCAD University
To explore ideas for the future and amplify the voices of Black and Indigenous women scholars, artists and activists, Professor Lillian Allen from OCAD University is participating on the International Women’s Day panel, “Imagining Black and Indigenous Futurities” hosted by Brock University.
Ontario Tech University
Through a series of events and booths hosted by campus and community-based groups including the Student Engagement and Equity Team, Ontario Tech Student Union, Women at Ontario Tech Committee, Ontario Tech University is celebrating International Women’s Day with giveaways, prizes and informational sessions.
University of Ottawa
In celebration of International Women’s Day, the University of Ottawa is hosting the event “What I Wish I Knew” featuring a panel of women leaders who will share anecdotes from their career journies from across sectors. The event is also part of the university’s Career Week programming – a partnership with RBC – that aims to help students become career-ready.
Queen’s University
In partnership with women-focused groups across campus, the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science at Queen’s University is holding a networking and information session to mark International Women’s Day. The event includes speeches from community members and an interactive activity that commemorates this year’s theme of “Embrace Equity” through art.
University of Toronto
Panel discussions, vision board building and paint night are only some of the events the University of Toronto Scarborough is hosting to celebrate International Women’s Day. These events bring together women students, entrepreneurs and artists from the local community to learn and share lived experiences.
Toronto Metropolitan University
A panel and networking event featuring five women leaders who will share their experiences, success stories and hopes for the future, will be hosted by the European Union Consulates of Toronto and the Leadership Lab at Toronto Metropolitan University in celebration of International Women’s Day. The panelists will also share their advice for the next generation.
Trent University
By organizing a campus fundraiser in support of the YWCA, students at Trent University Durham GTA are giving back to women in the local community this International Women’s Day.
University of Waterloo
Four alumni will join the University of Waterloo’s Faculty of Science for its annual International Women’s Day High Tea Social. The online event invites guests to listen or engage in the online chat for a commentary and round-table discussion. Panelists will share the importance of equity in the workplace, society and at home in celebration of the 2023 International Women’s Day theme of embracing equity.
Western University
To celebrate inspirational women, King’s College at Western University is hosting a drop-in event for International Women’s Day where students, faculty and staff can share a photo and a few words about a woman who inspires them.
Wilfrid Laurier University
The sixth annual International Women’s Day luncheon and panel discussion with the theme “Planetary Health: Women Leading Sustainable Solutions,” will be held in partnership with the International Women’s Forum and Wilfrid Laurier University. Panelists will share their experience as scientists, community organizers, educators, and activists leading sustainable initiatives, strategies and research.
University of Windsor
In celebration of women-owned businesses from Windsor-Essex, the Vendor Fair at the University of Windsor will offer university and community members the opportunity to shop local for crafts, baked goods, self-care and more. The event is organized by the University of Windsor Students’ Union’s Womxan’s Centre, which aims to support all women through education and advocacy.
York University
Kike Oko-Thompson, award-winning equity thought leader, is joining York University as a keynote speaker for International Women’s Day. Oko-Thompson will reflect on key questions concerning equity, diversity and inclusion, including: How might we reclaim and re-centre the transformative roots of equity and inclusion projects? What does EDI/DEDI have to do with social justice movements? This online event is part of the university’s Inclusion Week, which runs from March 6 to 10.