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To declare March 8, 2019 to be International Women's Day in the City of Columbus - celebrating the ongoing achievements that have been made in support of women's equality, and acknowledging the ongoing social, economic and political barriers that women continue to face around the world.
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WHEREAS, International Women's Day was first observed in Europe by Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland in 1911 and continues to be celebrated around the world as a testament to the enduring strength, bravery and zeal of women past and present; and
WHEREAS, International Women's Day is renowned for recognizing the social, economic and political barriers that have been overcome by women around the world, it is also distinguished for raising awareness against bias, taking action for equality and ultimately creating a balanced world, which is better for us all; and
WHEREAS, women's access to education, health care and paid labor has improved over the years, what is more, legislation promising equal opportunities for women and respect for their basic human rights has been adopted by many countries; and
WHEREAS, it is important to celebrate the progress that women have made - it is also imperative to keep the light shining upon the areas for which more movement and progress is needed, as well as to identify solutions and innovative changes to achieve the goal of equality for women; and
WHEREAS, our society cannot rest until each of our mothers, sisters and daughters have secured their rightful place as full and equal partners in a just, peaceful and civil society at home and abroad; and
WHEREAS, the theme for International Women's Day 2019 is “Think Equal, Build Smart, Innovate for Change;" and
WHEREAS, International Women's Day will be celebrated not only in the City of Columbus and Central Ohio, but around the world - a special observance, coordinated by Ms. Maryan Dualle, the Executive Director of the Global Health Education and Development, will take place on March 7, 2019 at the Ohio State House commemorating the collective action and shared ownership that our community has for driving the issue of gender parity forward - the motto for this observance will be “Better the Balance, Better the World;” now therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS: That this Council does hereby celebrate the vital role that women have played throughout history, moreover this Council remains fully committed to doing its part in creating a world in which women's equality is more than a goal but a living reality and declares March 8, 2019 to be International Women's Day in the City of Columbus - let’s Better the Balance and Better the World.