Uplifting voices: A night of celebration for Kingston women

Celebrate and honour the achievements of local women as International Women’s Day (Mar. 8)  approaches. On Mar. 4, the Central Branch of the Kingston Frontenac Public Library (KFPL) will host  "International Women's Week Opening Event: Celebrating Kingston Women," an all-ages event  highlighting art, performances and stories of strength and perseverance. 

Performers include newcomer singer Inna Leshchuk, Kingston Poet Laureate Sadiqa de Meijer and  Indigenous hand drummers.  

“This evening is a testament to the resilience and courage of our community,” the International  Women’s Week organizing committee shared in a joint statement. “This is an opportunity to uplift voices, especially those of equity-deserving women and survivors of sexual assault and domestic  violence. We can foster empowerment for generations by coming together as a community.” 

The event, developed in collaboration with Kingston Interval House, SAC Kingston, Resolve Counselling,  Trellis, Kingston Immigration Partnership, Kingston Anti-Violence Advisory Council, Kingston Frontenac  Anti-Violence Coordinating Committee and KFPL, will be welcoming and inclusive for all attendees.  

From interactive creativity sessions and captivating performances to a social gathering, the evening is  designed to engage and inspire people of all ages. Kids’ activities include button-making and hands-on  demonstrations of KFPL’s robots. 

• 4:30-5:30 p.m.: Interactive creativity, art showcase and refreshments 
• 5:30-6:30 p.m.: Performances and storytelling 
• 6:30-7 p.m.: Social gathering  

There will be smudging and halal food options. The event is free and open to the public, with no library  card required for entry.