Nunavut women celebrate International Women’s Day

SARA ARNATSIAQ

How does a mother in Baghdad comfort her child at night? As war looms in Iraq, she can’t say everything will be all right in the morning.

A participant asked the question last Saturday during events to mark International Women’s Day in Iqaluit. But no one had an answer.

Women and men in Iqaluit marked the day with a march for peace, while in Pangnirtung, 50 women were honoured for their volunteer work.

Madeline Komoartuk, president of the Qulliit Nunavut Status of Women’s Council, said Pangnirtung residents wanted to recognize the women for their work in cultural activities, education and social causes.

In Iqaluit, about 25 people, including 15 children, marched for peace in near-blizzard conditions. After the march, the group gathered for refreshments and local artists sang anti-war songs.

One person spoke about how lesbian and gay rights still have to be recognized and a high school student explained that gossip can hurt youth just as much as war can.