Discussion on patriarchy
A newly-formed group of women, Kapiti Women in Politics, is inviting the community to join them for a panel discussion to mark women’s suffrage on Thursday September 27.
“This is an important year as we analyse where we’ve got to as women over the past 125 years,” Group representative and deputy mayor Janet Holborow said.
“We’ve come such a long way and lead the world in many respects but there are many areas where we still need to keep progressing such as pay equity and high level representation in corporate positions.”
She said the group decided on a panel discussion as a way to address these issues.
They have assembled a “diverse and high-level” group of panellists led by New Zealand Law Society Wellington Branch Council vice president and convenor of the Wellington Women Lawyers’ Association Steph Dyhrberg, who will be joined by MP Jan Logie, veteran actor dame Kate Harcourt and local historian Queenie Rikihana Hyland.
The topic for the evening, Can Women Smash the Patriarchy, was chosen by Steph Dyhrberg who said everyone should feel welcome to take part in the discussion.
“The patriarchy is the prevailing socio political system.
“This event is certainly not about smashing men.
“While many think the battle is won, we’re becoming increasingly aware of the work that still needs to be done.”
MP Jan Logie’s role includes Minister of Justice (Domestic and Sexual Violence).
Dame Kate Harcourt was named a Dame Companion of the NZ Order of Merit in 1996 for her contribution to theatre. She spent much of the 1970s organising and compering daily fashion shows for Wellington department store Kirkcaldie and Stains.
“When I was doing publicity every now and then I’d get the chance to get up on stage,” she said.
“The parts gradually got bigger and then came roles in film, radio and television.”
Queenie Rikihana Hyland is well known in Ka¯ piti as an author, expert historian and for her many governance roles.
The evening will also feature a special performance by local singer songwriter Charlotte Kerrigan.
Tickets are $20, which includes refreshments and can be purchased through eventbrite or at the door.
The event starts at 6pm and will be held at the Ka¯ piti Sports Turf, Scaife Drive, Paraparaumu.
Any proceeds after expenses will be donated to the Ka¯ piti Women’s Centre.
For more information contact Janet Holborow on Janet.holborow@kapiticoast.govt.nz or 0272961628.