On March 8, 2013, PIRS once again joins various groups around the world in recognizing the economic, political and social achievements of women through the celebration of International Women’s Day. With the cooperation of the Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House, PIRS supports UN’s 2013 theme, “A promise is a promise: Time for action to end violence against women” through a textile exhibit, sharing stories, talks and film screening.

SHARING STORIES AND FILM SCREENING – the celebration harnesses the power of storytelling to bring to people’s awareness indigenous and refugee issues that is part and parcel of our Canadian culture. Ellen Woodsworth, speaker, writer, activist, and community organizer will talk about the organization that she founded and where she now sits as its National Chairperson: Women Transforming Cities International. Winnie Cheung, Executive Director of Vancouver Asian Heritage Month Society (VAHMS), member of Women Transforming Cities Steering Committee and winner of the Provincial Nesika Award for promoting diversity and multiculturalism, will also discuss some relevant and emerging issues affecting women.

The day’s celebration will be capped off with a short film screening about two teenage refugees who have left their own countries to escape abuse and to make a new life in Canada.

Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House is at 800 East Broadway, Vancouver, BC. Doors open for registration at 11:00 am.