MP Ferrier in call for gender equal society
NIKI TENNANT
Rutherglen MP Margaret Ferrier joined politicians from across South Lanarkshire to celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD) recently.
The annual event aims to raise awareness of gender bias and highlight the fight for an equal society.
‘Each for Equal’ was the theme for 2020 and speakers at the event in Hamilton Town House included Equalities Minister and Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse MSP Christina McKelvie as well as Shadow Health Minister Monica Lennon and Councillors Mary Donnelly (Hamilton West and Earnock) and Lynsey Hamilton (Clydesdale West).
Representatives from the council’s Gender Violence Unit, Women’s Aid South Lanarkshire and Renfrewshire and the Fairtrade Foundation were also present, and the cross party group hailed the event as a success.
Speaking after the event, Ms Ferrier said: “It was brilliant to join female colleagues from across the political spectrum to celebrate International Women’s Day.
“As the first ever female MP for Rutherglen and Hamilton West, I intend to be a role model for women and girls across South Lanarkshire and show them that there is no limit to what they can achieve.
“However, there is still a lot more work to be done to tackle the barriers that hold women back from full participation in society. I will be standing up for policies which will break down these barriers and deliver a fair, progressive and more equal society for everyone.”
A spokesperson for the crossparty group said: “We believe we should all strive to ensure an equal world which is an enabled world.
“Individually, we’re all responsible for our own thoughts and actions - all day, every day.
“We can actively choose to challenge stereotypes, fight bias, broaden perceptions, improve situations and celebrate women’s achievements.
“Collectively, each one of us can help create a gender equal world. Gender equality is essential for economies and our communities to thrive.”