Celebrating Unity & Diversity on International Women’s Day
On March 9th, the Grand Junction, CO Chapter of WFWP celebrated International Women's Day in a truly interreligious and inclusive gathering. What started as a commemoration of women's achievements and a call to action for gender equality turned into a beautiful tapestry of faiths and voices, each contributing to a rich and meaningful experience.
Seventeen participants from nine different faith backgrounds converged at the Unitarian Church, a space transformed into a beacon of warmth and inclusivity. Representing various denominations such as Catholicism, Unitarian Universalism, Latter-day Saints, United Methodism, Bahá'í, American Lutheran, and Congregationalism, as well as organizations like the Women's Federation for World Peace (WFWP), we came together under the banner of solidarity and empowerment.
Gale Alves, representing WFWP, set the tone for the event with her opening remarks. She illuminated the significance of International Women's Day, delved into its history, and highlighted this year's theme: "Invest in women. Accelerate progress. Support women and girls!" Furthermore, Gale introduced WFWP's mission and the visionary leadership of Mother Moon, emphasizing the organization's commitment to fostering love, harmony, and peace on a global scale.
The event took on a personal touch as each participant, comprising both women and men, introduced themselves and shared quotes from influential women they admired. From Maya Angelou to Mother Teresa, from grandmothers to historical figures like Tahirah of Persia, the quotes echoed the resilience and determination of women throughout history to challenge societal norms and pave the way for progress.
One participant shared about her courageous stand for women's rights in 19th-century Iran, culminating in her declaration, "You can kill me, but you cannot stop the emancipation of women," served as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality worldwide.
The event continued with soul-stirring musical performances, including renditions of "Blowin' in the Wind" and "Let There be Peace on Earth," underscoring the universal desire for harmony and unity. However, the pinnacle of the gathering was the Water Ceremony, symbolizing the unity and collective aspirations of women everywhere.
Participants poured colored water into a communal bowl, each hue representing the diversity of women's experiences, dreams, and aspirations. With each offering, prayers and intentions were shared for qualities such as love, courage, peace, and compassion, echoing the shared desire for a better world where women are recognized and respected for their invaluable contributions.
In the end, it was not just a celebration of women but a celebration of humanity, a testament to the power of diversity, unity, and collective action. As we reflect on this memorable event, let us carry forward the spirit of International Women's Day in our daily lives, championing equality, justice, and empowerment for all.
