Bermuda celebrates International Women's Day by honouring 100 women

The awardees were nominated by the public and selected by the Women’s Council based on their economic, political and social achievements.

The theme for this year is ‘Strong Women Create Strong Communities’.

Minister of Youth, Family and Sport Glenn Blakeney spoke at the International Women’s Day celebration: “First, we are certainly celebrating the 100 Women who had 100 Visions.

“These women, who have been nominated by the general public and selected by the Bermuda Women’s Council, span a century of contribution, charitable works and progress for a better life.

“Some are no longer with us and we also recognize their achievements.

“I would like to acknowledge and applaud the women who are present here today for their outstanding achievements and contribution to Bermuda.

“These ladies are identifiable by the purple ribbon which they are wearing and we applaud you.”

He continued: “Bermuda is an island of some 65,000 people, and according to the last census 52 per cent are female and 48 per cent are male. 

“Yet we still cannot say that women in general enjoy the same status as men in our society nor can we say that they are properly represented at the national decision-making level.

“Although great achievements have been made and our esteemed Hounorable Premier Cox is Bermuda’s third female Premier and our Senate is predominantly female, only 19 per cent of the Members of Parliament are female.

“Women are increasingly better educated with more and more girls out-performing boys in primary and secondary school.

“Yet these achievements are not similarly reflected upon maturity in their adult professional life. The glass ceiling and the sticky floor continue to be realities for women.”

Celebrations will continue throughout the month.