The City of Peterborough will come together to celebrate International Women’s Day with a series of events designed to honuor the contributions of women and girls to the community.
A rally organized by the Kawartha World Issues Centre and the Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre will kick off at 11:30 a.m. Saturday outside City Hall, located at 500 George St. N. Mayor Jeff Leal will formally proclaim March 8th as International Women’s Day in Peterborough. The event will feature inspiring speeches and performances, including appearances by Janet McCue, Mshkiki Gitigaan Kwe, Ziysah, and the Raging Grannies.
“On International Women’s Day, we celebrate the incredible contributions of women and girls to the social, economic, cultural, and political fabric of our community,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “In Peterborough, women have been at the heart of our progress—leading businesses, driving innovation, advocating for change, and strengthening our city in countless ways. There is no doubt that more work needs to be done. One of the most powerful ways to move gender equality ahead is to support and elevate women-focused initiatives.”
Leal emphasized the importance of supporting organizations and individuals making a difference in the lives of women and girls, stating that empowering women strengthens and uplifts the entire community. “Today we not only recognize the achievements of women and girls in Peterborough, but we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring every woman and girl has the opportunity to thrive,” he said.
City Councillor Lesley Parnell, a lifelong resident and volunteer in Peterborough, added, “As a woman who has lived and volunteered in Peterborough since I was a child, I can tell you that initiatives that welcome women volunteers or are led by women tend to be successful, create community, and help develop important connections and friendships. Today we celebrate our women who contribute so much to our lives. And thank you to everyone who supports and encourages these women in many ways.”
Following the rally, participants will march to the Peterborough Public Library at 345 Aylmer St. for a community event running from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Doors open at 12:30 p.m., and registration for the event is strongly encouraged.
This year’s International Women’s Day celebration in Peterborough is a powerful reminder of the ongoing work needed to ensure gender equality and the importance of collective action to uplift women in all spheres of life.
