Along with a growing number of organisations around the world, Renewal SA this week recognises International Women’s Day (IWD) on 8 March. We also acknowledge it is not just about one day but about the work we do every day and continuing to ‘press for progress’ – this year’s IWD theme – on gender equality, workplace diversity and end to violence against women.
Workplace gender diversity
There is a growing recognition that we need to strive for more female representation at all levels of business, and in addition to empowering women, studies have shown that gender diversity has significant benefits for business, including driving high performance, improving your brand, and fostering creativity and innovation.
Recognising great leaders
We are also celebrating the official renaming of the 3.5 km Port Adelaide loop path to the Anna Rennie Path in honour of one of the community's most influential women (pictured left). Ms Rennie was not only the first female Mayor of the City of Port Adelaide Enfield, but campaigned for improvements to food ration schemes, equal pay for women and improvements to local roads and footpaths. A natural-born helper, Ms Rennie trained as a nurse at the Adelaide Hospital and even opened her own home to disadvantaged families. She also established and raised funds a number of valuable social causes in her community. As a strong role model for women, Ms Rennie's memory will live on through Port Adelaide's humble streets for her unmatched compassion, whole hearted dedication and life's achievements.
Prevention of Violence Against Women strategy
As a White Ribbon accredited workplace, Renewal SA is now committing to a Prevention of Violence Against Women strategy. Over the next three years, we have identified 44 actions that will realise the commitment we have made to White Ribbon and to the women of Australia.
The program builds on existing gender equality and diversity initiatives, providing the tools to strengthen a culture of respect and gender equality at all levels. The program supports organisations to respond to and prevent violence against women, whether it occurs inside or outside the workplace, through supporting women experiencing violence, supporting all employees to challenge inappropriate behaviour and strengthen gender equality within the broader community.
By incorporating the White Ribbon ethos into our projects, programs, initiatives and partnerships, we can lead the change of attitudes and behaviours beyond our own organisation, and influence change in our community and in the businesses with which we partner and collaborate for a safer South Australia.
> Join the conversation – share what you are doing to #PressforProgress on #IWD2018 via Twitter