International Women’s Day
We know that women participate in disproportionate amounts of paid and unpaid care tasks and domestic labouri. We know that girls and women experience violence and abuse, sexual, physical and emotional, disproportionately to men, and overwhelmingly at the hands of menii. We know God has a a different vision for our world – one of safety, loving community and mutual service and kindness toward each other.
The world marks International Women’s Day, March 8, to promote the full inclusion, safety and prosperity of women. When the standard of living for women is increased, through labour force participation with fair pay, education and improved health, entire communities benefit and reap the rewards. Children, families and entire communities live healthier, happier lives when women live in safety and peace with empowered participation.
In his book, “The Hole in Our Gospel,” World Vision U.S. President Emeritus Rich Stearns writes, “In my opinion, the single most significant thing that can be done to cure extreme poverty is this: Protect, educate, and nurture girls and women and provide them with equal rights and opportunities — educationally, economically, and socially.” iii
The Christian Care Sunday project provides resources for congregations to acknowledge the vulnerable people in our communities, and the many organisations who work with them. This International Women’s Day you are invited to consider a prayer for girls and women worldwide, for an end to domestic and family violence, and for the mutual flourishing of all people as we live in community with each other.
You can find resources to support this action at www.lca.org.au/ccs-resources365 under the tab “Dates and Focus Days” – March 8, International Women’s Day, and November 25, White Ribbon Day.
Anna Kroehn is concluding her time as Christian Care Sunday project officer for the LCANZ. The Christian Care Sunday resources will continue to be housed on the LCA website and supported by the Committee for Care Ministries and Executive Officer for Local Mission, Tania Nelson.
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i Workplace Gender Equality Agency | Unpaid care work and the labour market https://www.wgea.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/australian-unpaid-care-work-and-the-labour-market.pdf
ii https://www.dvconnect.org/domestic-violence-statistics/
iii Taken from https://www.worldvision.org/gender-equality-news-stories/matthew-25-pray-for-women-and-girls
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