Zonta Celebrating Women – Empowering and Inspiring Change
International Women’s Day/Zonta Rose Day 8 March 2014
Globally, members of Zonta International are celebrating International Women’s Day and Zonta Rose Day. In the week
leading up to 8 March Zonta members throughout New Zealand will devote their efforts to raising awareness of the
opportunities and challenges for women through events forums and service activities. They will be acknowledging the
achievements of women of the past, celebrating the progress women are making today and recognising the women who work
tirelessly for others.
“Working to protect and advance the rights of women and girls around the world is not an option; it’s a necessity”
reports Zonta International President, Lynn McKenzie. This message we send out to the women of today.
We know that the advancement of women is of prime importance to the economy, business and society; we therefore call for
the status quo for women’s equality to be challenged. Gloria Steinem, American feminist, journalist, social and
political activist, words lend us a powerful message “The story of women’s struggle for equality belongs to no single
feminist nor to any one organisation but to the collective efforts of all who are about human rights.”
Our Zonta Club members will be hosting celebrations with inspiring and thought provoking speakers. Roses in many forms
will be presented to women deserving of recognition. Zonta chose the yellow rose as its emblem because it signifies
friendship and the promise of a new beginning.
Maureen Heine, Governor of Zonta New Zealand articulates that “Zonta Rose Day/International Women’s Day helps to build a
sense of unity and a commitment to advancing the status of women. Through shared activity Zonta members mark this
special day of reflection and celebration”.
Zonta International is a global organization of executives and professionals working together to advance the status of
women worldwide through service and advocacy.
To learn more about Zonta and look at opportunities to join this global organization of executives and professionals
visit: www.zonta.org www.zonta.org.nz
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