Inspiring Inclusion — International Women’s Day

In March 1911, the first International Women’s Day took place. While circumstances have changed in over a century, this annual global event reminds people that inspiring inclusion, which is this year’s theme, in the home and in the community, as well as in education and the workplace, remains a collective ambition. Worldwide, women have a right to reach for their dreams. They should also have an opportunity to achieve them in their lifetime.

In some countries, girls and women struggle far more than in Canada, but no country is immune to discrimination, adversity and even atrocity. At the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC), we make every effort to attract and retain women who will share their perspectives and talent with their colleagues. We have a diverse Board of Directors. We participate in school-based STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) initiatives to help young people develop innovation, problem-solving and critical thinking skills. We appoint deserving women to positions of leadership, who are role models for others. The MUHC is still making progress. Whereas in the 1800s, women held only the position of nurse they now help our organization thrive through their contributions in myriad job categories and governance roles.

Today, let us celebrate women of all ages. Let us lead by example so that the road ahead continues to offer brighter opportunities for each new generation. 

Lucie Opatrny, MD MHCM MSc
President and Executive Director, MUHC