8 March is International Women’s Day, a chance to celebrate working women’s achievements and renew the struggle for equality.
For Debbie Rowden, recently elected to UNISON Eastern’s women’s committee, the meaning of this celebration is worth tracing back two ways, the acknowledgement of women – who they are, their value – and a performative sense, in the same way we celebrate Christmas.
“But I have mixed feelings about International Women’s Day,” she confesses. “On the one hand it’s right that we have a day to celebrate, but also I think women should be celebrated every day.”
She can see how far women’s equality has come in recent years, particularly noticing the difference since she moved from Trinidad, but she feels there’s still a long, long way to go.
“There’s simple things like safety,” Debbie says. “We’re often not safe in public – you see it with women going out for a jog and not coming back – and many are not safe in the privacy of their own homes with violent or abusive partners.”
But she’s pleased to be part of a union that’s committed to further progress. “UNISON is over 70% women. We show we acknowledge the importance of representation in the self-organised groups and our conferences. These platforms help us to have voice.
“And I want to use my voice for future women. We need to promote equality and promote policies that support women. It’s also important that as a Black woman I come at it with that extra perspective.”
And Debbie has a simple piece of advice for women in public services: “Be the change you want to see.”
She’s keen to get more young women to make sure women’s voices are still heard in the future.
“It’s all about doing the good fight. No matter where you are, it’s one fight. We need to unite and we need to fight.”