Denise Park doing the Inspire Inclusion pose
Published Thursday 7 March 2024 at 17:51
International Women’s Day takes place on March the 8th and this year’s theme is #InspireInclusion.
Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council are encouraging all residents to strike the Inspire Inclusion pose, showing commitment to building a more gender-equal world.
The focus for IWD campaigns (past and present), is a world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that’s diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated.
Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council is no stranger to enigmatic female leaders be it in history or present day.
Barbara Castle was one of the most influential and iconic female politicians this country has ever seen, she was Blackburn’s MP between 1945 and 1979.
Barbara was passionate about women’s rights and fiercely campaigned for equal pay. Learn more about her: Barbara Castle | The Shuttle: Blackburn with Darwen Council News
Chief Executive at Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, Denise Park started her role on 1 May, 2019.
Denise said:
During my time at the council I have worked with some remarkable women. Women in every area and department that have inspired and influenced my work and environment.
I have always felt that the Council is an inclusive and diverse place to work. A place where my career has thrived and where the achievements of women are recognised and celebrated.
I will continue to Inspire Inclusion like those before me and celebrate the women that continue to support me and the council in each area of work that we undertake. Our female workforce is invaluable and I beam with pride when I see the apprentices who want to work in an organisation that values us at every level of progression.
The 2024 International Women’s Day theme is very apt as it empowers us to make sure all women feel included and know that they belong.
There are also events taking place across the borough to mark IWD including a Refresh event at King George’s Hall on the 8th of March from 10am and an International Women’s Day Concert at Blackburn Cathedral in the evening at 7.30pm.
We’d love to hear from you. Take a picture of yourself striking the ##InspireInclusion pose and share it with us on our social media.
You can also find more examples online: IWD: International Women’s Day 2024 campaign theme is ‘Inspire Inclusion’ (internationalwomensday.com)