Reflections from the Gender Equity Committee

Reflections from the Gender Equity Committee

Last Friday, on 6 March, MLC School hosted its annual International Women’s Day breakfast, where we brought like-minded people together to discuss prevalent issues regarding gender inequality regarding this year’s theme of Balancing the Scales. It was an amazing experience where the community came together to celebrate the impact of female role models in our lives. We had the opportunity to hear from guest speakers Old Girl, Pauline Blight-Johnston (1988) and Jane Lim, who shared important insights into leadership, perseverance, and service within their respective fields. They provided experience on professional growth and their individual insights of being a woman.
 
As part of the celebrations the Gender Equity Committee organised some activities during Luminary time to help educate students and allow for them to reflect upon and engage with the day. Students learnt about the origins of International Women’s Day – beginning in the early 1900s and being officially recognised by the UN in 1975 – as well at this year’s International Women’s Day theme of Balance the Scales. Students then participated in a letter writing activity called ‘because of her…’ where they wrote letters to women who inspired them or positively impacted their life. In some cases, these letters were just a means of reflection and in others they were passed on to the recipient: a friend, teacher, coach or relative!
 

This past Monday, the Gender Equity Committee had the opportunity to attend a Gender Equity Forum at Newington College. As the first forum of the year, it was enjoyable to return to discussions and debates on important issues. After an opening presentation for all participants, we split into smaller discussion groups, which gave everyone the chance to share their perspectives and contribute to the conversation.

Some of the key topics raised included the differences between co-educational and single-sex schools, the ongoing lack of women in executive leadership positions, and the gradual increase in fathers taking paternal leave. These issues, along with the conversations they sparked, were both insightful and thought-provoking, highlighting the importance of continuing and normalising open discussion about gender equity.

Overall, it was a very informative and engaging afternoon. The forum inspired us to bring several of these ideas back to our weekly Gender Equity meetings so we can continue discussing how we can contribute to positive change within and outside of the MLC School community.