Women hailed for key role in virus fight
The role of women in dealing with the impact of Covid is to be marked as part of an online event during International Women’s Day tomorrow.
The free seminar will feature contributions from Linda Bauld, professor for public health at Edinburgh University, actress Elaine C Smith, and Monica Lennon MSP. First Minister Nicola Sturgeon will send a pre-recorded video message.
Those at the frontline of the pandemic will also be featured, including accounts from critical care nurse Erin Moffat, care assistant Cynthia Osayamwen and student nurse Mary Boyd.
Organised by the Scottish Women’s Convention and the Scottish Parliament, the session will be chaired by deputy presiding officer Linda Fabiani.
She said: “Women have risen to the many challenges Covid-19 has thrown at them, often juggling many priorities at home, at work and in their communities. I am delighted this event will allow us a virtual platform from which to celebrate and recognise their many achievements.
“This annual event is usually held in our debating chamber, with hundreds of women joining us in person. Whilst we can’t do that this year, we will continue to help support women, acknowledging the challenges they face and their collective hopes and aspirations for the future.”
Agnes Tolmie, chair of the Scottish Women’s Convention, said: “This year our event is being held online and this enables us as an organisation to reach out to more women than ever before, bringing them together from different cultures and backgrounds across Scotland and internationally to celebrate all of their achievements during the pandemic.
“The SWC has been showcasing women in Scotland’s contributions since January. It has highlighted the far-ranging achievements of women during one of the most difficult periods in our history.”