Women’s Day a reminder

Each year Kiwis join others around the world in marking International Women’s Day. Why is it important?

Rural Women NZ president Gill Naylor says “by measuring progress and highlighting the work still to be done, we can ensure that we keep moving forward in addressing inequities faced by girls and women around the world”.

Primary industry has traditionally been seen as a man’s world with women often the invisible partner or, if in a support role, perceived as providing less value, she says.

“There are increasing numbers of women represented at all levels of primary industry whether running farming businesses, heading up industry organisations or taking on governance roles but we still have some way to go to ensure we are not restricting the talent pool and putting unnecessary barriers in the way.”

‘‘We also need to keep reminding ourselves and our communities of the valuable work that women do and the contributions they make to a healthy and thriving society. “

Gill suggests several ways Kiwis can show their commitment. Employers can get on board with the “Mind the Gap” campaign and not only show their commitment to addressing any pay inequities in their organisation but increase their attractiveness as an employer.

‘‘We can support the recognition of the vital work done by those in female-dominated professions such as nursing, midwifery and healthcare, and the value of their contribution.

‘‘As Rural Women NZ we will continue to promote the value of the voice of women and the need to apply a gender lens when developing new policy whether in New Zealand or on the world stage.”