Posted on March 12 , 2008

The Advocate
www.accentadvocate.com

City Pays Homage to Women
Celebration for International Women's Day Opens Dialogue

By Jean Womack

RICHMOND - Residents and organizations from Richmond came together Saturday at LaVonya DeJean Middle School to hold its first annual International Women's Day luncheon. Organized by Mayor Gayle McLaughlin and the Mayor's Office, the event drew a crowd of about 200 people, including numerous civic leaders. [emphasis added]

McLaughlin spoke on the impact sex plays today and how to change the stereotype. "We know that sexism continues to exist," she said. "We must bring that strong female forward. There are some who would have women stay in the subservient role. We are the people and together we will rise." [emphasis added]

Round tables were spread throughout the school's cafeteria and with each hosting a discussion on a different topic. Many topics dealt with local organizations and activism, including the Tent City Peace Movement, Richmond's Sister City Association with Regla, Cuba, Ma'at Youth Academy, Youth Together, Rosie the Riveter and World War Home Front Park, the Richmond Green Party, the Richmond Progressive Alliance and Community Gardens.

Other organizations included Mothers Against Senseless Killing, Black Women Organized for Political Action, Free The Cuban 5, Haiti Action Committee and Healthy Food.

Vice Chairman of the Richmond Art and Culture Commission and Contra Costa College student Dwayne Parish said he represents the arts and the city of Richmond at any worthwhile event. "I have a good relationship with Mother Nature and the mayor," Parish said.

Women of power - Dance squad Danza Azteca takes a break between performances during Richmond's International Women's Day luncheon Saturday at LaVonya DeJean Middle School to begin the city's salute to Women's History Month. (Jean Womack / The Advocate)

The Danza Azteca dance troupe opened the event with energetic dances, accompanied by drumming. Although men were included in the richly costumed dance troupe, as their speaker pointed out, they are a family group of mostly women.

The all-women dance troupe Las Bomberas de la Bahaia also performed to percussion instruments.

Artist Ora echoed the feelings of many in the room when she said: "It doesn't matter where we are from. We're all in this together. We all have the same goals in life," Ora said.

Contact Jean Womack at jwomack.advocate@gmail.com.