Inspirational women at forefront of Wigan celebration

IWD Day fell on Sunday this year and a programme of special performances on Saturday at the art installation in the Galleries kick-started proceedings.

The council will be promoting this year’s theme for IWD - #EachforEqual – throughout this week, raising awareness of gender bias.

The Fire Within schedule featured sportswomen, artists, dancers and digital ambassadors from across the borough.

Performances from Louise the Poet and Wigle Dance and a presentation from Tania Allard, a Microsoft software engineer, were all included.

Kate Fussell, who was Wigan’s first female surgeon will be recognised later in the week when she has a star unveiled at a private ceremony in Believe Square.

Wigan Council’s chief executive Alison McKenzie-Folan said: “These celebrations are a fantastic way to showcase women in the borough and is a great opportunity for residents to come together and celebrate their achievements.

“As a council, we have a great track record of offering opportunities to women. I’m the third consecutive female chief executive of the council, while 14 of the 24 senior management team positions are currently held by women. That is why it’s vital we take the lead on events like International Women’s Day that aim to empower women to live in an equal and enabled world.”

The council’s commitment to promoting equality within the workforce was recognised in last year’s Northern Power Women’s Awards when it picked up the Large Organisation award for raising awareness and encouraging behaviour change, demonstrated through the #BelieveInHer campaign. The #EachForEqual theme will be promoted at the Fire Within through features by Ashton Girls Group and an inspirational film created by Leigh Film Society. Al and Al, the duo behind the Fire Within were also on hand to talk about their current ‘Love is a Rebellious Bird’ exhibition

To learn more about International Women’s Day, visit http://www.internationalwomensday.com