It’s that time of year to look around and honour outstanding women in our community that have somehow made it a better place to live.
The Baha’i of St. Albert once more celebrates International Women’s Day on March 6. They would like you to nominate mothers, sisters, wives, friends, co-workers or employers — women who have demonstrated generosity, courage, creativity, determination, leadership, enthusiasm, caring and passion.
“Women promote peace and are very service oriented. They like to be involved in philanthropic activities and they are very tender-hearted,” says Mitra Taef, a member of St. Albert Baha’i organizing committee.
In today’s fast-paced life, “they wear many hats — mother of children, nurturers, caregivers and women are very career oriented too. Gone are the days when women stayed home. We like to express our opinions and participate in all affairs of humanity.”
In fact, the United Nations has repeatedly acknowledged the importance of women’s equality in areas of peace and security and the economic stability of nations.
“We totally forget how much women contribute to society and the Baha’i would like to showcase and let them shine.”
The Baha’i is accepting nomination forms for women that have made extraordinary contributions. Categories to consider are the arts, science, education, health, multiculturalism, peace, Aboriginal activities, youth and unsung heroine.
Past recipients have included Millie Seitz, organizer of the Peace Garden by the Sturgeon River; Colleen Lowe for her extensive work with children at risk; Alfreda Melik, a driving force of the St. Albert Knights of Columbus mini-basketball program; Senator Thelma Chalifoux, a potent advocate for Native rights and abused women and Tilly Mallard, a mother who motivated the health care system into helping her severely disabled daughter.
“When we celebrate women, we encourage everyone else who is thinking of service to the community. It helps people plan for the future.”
Nominees must be residents of St. Albert or the Sturgeon region, and their contributions either in the present or past, must have made a positive impact.
Nomination forms are available either by calling Taef at 780-458-5214 or Elaine at 780-419-2699. They can also be downloaded at www.stalbertbahai.org. Deadline for nominations is Wednesday, Feb. 10.
