Queensland women shaping Smart State’s future

Minister for Women Margaret Keech said the 2008 International Women’s Day theme – Queensland Women: Shaping the Future – aimed to encourage women to look beyond their appearance and celebrate their achievements.

International Women’s Day is celebrated every year on 8 March.

Officially launching the theme today, Mrs Keech said body image was something women of all ages often struggled with.

“This theme aims to inspire women and girls to look into themselves rather than at themselves. To look at other women and celebrate their talents, achievements and potential,” she said.

“Clearly women have come a long way in the fight for equal rights and recognition.

“However women’s achievements are still being undermined by society’s fixation on their appearance.

“The myth of the ‘Ideal Body’ is everywhere – in the media, in the fashion world and in us.

“In 2007 a Mission Australia national survey of young Australians found the most commonly nominated concern was body image.

“International Women’s Day 2008 is the time to confront this issue and change this unfair stereotype.

“It has always been a day when women unite to protest against injustice and raise awareness about issues affecting women throughout the world.

“This is a day for women to recognise their achievements and work together towards a better future.

“A day on which we can send a message to society that judging people on their appearance is unacceptable and start to institute a change in such mindsets.

“I encourage the community to celebrate the great achievements of women everywhere and work towards a future where women receive due recognition for their ability and significant contribution to society, not their looks.”

The Office for Women is supporting International Women’s Day with free resources that are made available to any individual or organisation in Queensland.

These can be ordered via the Office for Women website or by calling the Women’s Infolink free call service.

Media Contact: Matthew Hyde 3235 9236