International Women’s Day throws spotlight on #MeToo movement at UW

At the University of Waterloo, the #MeToo movement is giving new meaning to International Women’s Day.

The UW Women’s Centre says the vast reach and prevalence of movements like #MeToo and #TimesUp is lending a renewed sense of hope to Women’s Day celebrations, and the women’s movement in general.

“It’s highlighting the importance of having women’s voices heard and respected and believed,” says Kazma Chaudhry, publicity director with the UW Women’s Centre.

But Chaudhry adds, while women are speaking up and speaking out about their experiences, we’re far from a reality that always respects their voices.

That’s why the women’s centre is starting a conversation today on International Women’s Day, about how this culture-shifting movement has impacted the lives of women on campus.

At a panel discussion this afternoon on how to report sexual assaults and navigate the university’s different departments for help, the women’s centre wants to hear about your #MeToo moments on campus.

Chaudhry says if you’ve ever been assaulted or harassed but had no idea what to do, that’s what the event is all about.

Various organization such as Counseling Services, the Sexual Assault Support Centre of K-W, and Regional Police will be represented on the panel to answer questions.

You can learn more by clicking here.