Govt Celebrates International Women’s Day

During this past week, the Government of Bermuda has been observing International Women’s Day [IWD], which was celebrated on Friday.

A government spokesperson said, “This year’s theme is #InspireInclusion, and the Public Service has shone a spotlight on the important role that women play in Government.

“In recognition of the day, Her Excellency the Governor, Rena Lalgie, has provided a special message for women in both the public and private sector and throughout all of Bermuda.

“Additionally, the Head of the Public Service, Cherie Whitter, also provided a message of well wishes to the public service and wider community for International Women’s Day.

“As a reminder, in the lead up to and on International Women’s Day, the events were as follows:

• “March 6 – Public Service IWD Wellness Walk around Hamilton.

• “March 7 – Minister Tinee Furbert, Minister for Gender Affairs hosted a discussion with Future Leaders and Youth Parliamentarian female members to discuss topics relevant to women and girls’ empowerment.

• “March 8 – Women from the uniformed services [Customs, Police, Fire] greeted commuters at the Paget Crow Lane round-a-bout; and

• “March 8 – There was a Panel Discussion streamed internally to the public service, featured female members of the service who have all been “Firsts” in their career. Panelists include, the Head of the Public Service, Cherie Whitter; Cindy Clarke, the first female Bermudian Director of Public Prosecutions; Tami Ray, Bermuda’s first female Senior Ferry Master; and Keeva Joelle Benjamin, Bermuda’s first female Commissioner of Corrections.

Cherie Whitter, Head of the Public Service for the Government of Bermuda added, “When women are inspired to be included, there’s a sense of belonging, relevance and empowerment. As Head of the Public Service, I’m extremely proud of the work that our female officers do throughout the service on a daily basis. And it’s been very gratifying to recognise them all this week and acknowledge all that they do for our community and for the government.”

Cherie Whitter’s message

On International Women’s Day, the women in the public service join millions around the globe in celebration and recognition of women’s rights and equality.

There are approximately twenty-three hundred [2,300] women in the Service who can be found all levels of the public sector.

This year’s theme #InspireInclusion aims to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create environments where all women are valued and respected.

Over the course of this past week, the Public Service has been intentional about employee engagement in observation of IWD by hosting a series of activities aimed at shining a spotlight on women in the Service.

The public service aims to be an employer of choice.

Our goal is to attract, develop, motivate, and retain a quality talent pool.

As an employer we are taking the necessary steps to be responsive to the changing needs of our employee base – eliminating gender bias – rewarding effectiveness – and recognizing the achievement of excellent outcomes.

So on this day, as we highlight the strides of women, I want to take this opportunity to remember those women who paved the way, to celebrate those currently in the service, and to inspire career-minded women who want to make a positive contribution to our community to consider a career in the public service.

Happy International Women’s Day Bermuda, and on behalf of the Public Service Executive we encourage you to do your part to #InspireInclusion.

#GoodNews

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