March 8th is not just a day to celebrate the achievements of women in the 20th century, it is a day to reflect and act on the inequalities that still persists. Intersectionality is a framework for understanding how a persons’ identities overlap to create different forms of discrimination and privileges. Using an intersectional lens also directs us to recognize the historical contexts surrounding an issue.
While all women struggle to achieve wage parity and rise above discrimination, we must not ignore the fact that a disproportionate percentage of homeless, incarcerated, and abused women come from Black and Indigenous communities. These trends are a result of colonialism, patriarchy, and systemic white privilege. It is important that we work towards addressing the root causes of insecurity and abuse, such as poverty, discrimination, and lack of access to healthcare and education. United, we can help prevent future generations from experiencing the same challenges and ensure that everyone can live a safe and fulfilling life. We are committed to filling the gaps in funding and services to ensure everyone is supported within a community network based upon compassion and equality. Be part of the solution. UNITED. Without you, there is no WAY.
At United Way Waterloo Regional Communities we are committed to changing the dialogue and pushing forward change against all the ‘ism’ that stands in the way of community prosperity. Many of the agencies we support have a disproportionately large representation of women as a result of pervasive inequalities. We want to give special mention to the amazing women supporting and seeking help with the Coalition of Muslim Women of KW, Focus for Ethnic Women, Sexual Assault Support Center of Waterloo Region, Women’s Crisis Services of Waterloo Region, and the YWCA of Cambridge; we support, admire, and celebrate these agencies and individuals.