Dr Kcasey McLoughlin - an open letter on International Women's Day
An open letter to the University of Newcastle Alumni Community
Each year International Women’s Day provides an opportunity to celebrate women’s social, economic, cultural and political achievements.
This year’s theme, “Women in leadership: Achieving an equal future in a COVID-19 world,” celebrates women’s leadership and calls for women and feminists across the world to claim their space in leadership and decision-making.
Because gender equality remains a work in progress the day also marks a call to action.
Although barriers to women’s participation in leadership are systemic, we all have a role to play in shifting policy and culture so that women are able to participate fully in economic, political and public life free from discrimination and gender-based violence.
We can empower women and girls by demanding equal representation of women in all the places where decisions are made, sharing domestic and care-work at home equally, equal pay for work of equal value, and zero-tolerance of sexual harassment and violence.
By amplifying the voices and perspectives of women, especially those in minority or marginalised communities, we are able to acknowledge the diversity of women and their contributions. One small but significant way that you can champion women leaders is by recognising and celebrating the achievements of women.
I was immensely proud to be named as the recipient of the 2020 Beryl Nashar Young Researcher Award in recognition of my research into strengthening gender equality.
The University of Newcastle’s 2021 Alumni Excellence Awards are now open for nominations and I would strongly encourage you to consider nominating an alumna for one of these awards. This kind of recognition is not only a wonderful boost for the nominee, it also enhances the visibility of women’s diverse contributions to our communities. Self-nominations are also encouraged!
N.B Nominations for the 2021 Alumni Excellence Awards are now closed. Winners will be announced later this year.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.