Media Release: 3 March 2005

CELEBRATING WOMEN WITH A DISABILITY

Women with a disability from across the Western Region will gather at the Werribee Open Plains Zoo on Tuesday 8 March 2005 for a special celebration of International Women's Day.

More than 100 women with a disability will take part in the event, called 'I am Woman, Hear me Roar!'. The day will include safari tours of the zoo, accessible walking tours, entertainment by women of all abilities and speeches, including life stories from women with a disability.

"International Women's Day is a recognition of the value of women," says Christine Williams, Chair of the Western Region Disability Network. Christine, who is an incomplete paraplegic due to polio, is a long-time activist in the disability self-help movement. She has been a key member of the event steering committee and will be MC at the event.

"I think everything the day offers will appeal to women," says Christine, "from the attractions at the Zoo, through to special activities we've organised including the pampering stall and fabulous entertainment. I'm thrilled to be involved in such a unique project in the West, celebrating International Women's Day and recognising the value of women with a disability."

'I am Woman, Hear me Roar!' is organised by Women's Health West, with funding from VicHealth and CityWest Water, and support from organisations including the Western Region Disability Network, Isis Primary Care, North West Migrant Resource Centre and Friends of the Zoo.

A steering group involving women with a disability and service providers has played a key role in determining what the event would be like. Organisers have made a particular effort to reach out and promote the event to more isolated women - those who are not involved in regular programs, and who rarely get the chance to socialise.

Highlights of the day will include: life stories from Effie Meehan and Julyne Ainsley, performances by deaf circus artist Asphyxia, the official launch of Women's Health West's new disability-accessible website, the 'pamper yourself' stall and accessible information about women's health and family violence. This last activity is particularly crucial as rates of violence against women with a disability are estimated to be twice that of the general population, yet it is a little-known or discussed issue.

"I think it's important to recognise that we as women with a disability have the same rights as all women, in particular to an intimate relationship, to family, and to meaningful work," says Christine Williams. "Safe, accessible events like 'I am Woman, Hear me Roar!' highlight our right to make choices for ourselves, and to have as wide a range of choices in life as anyone else."

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MEDIA CONTACT

For more information or to arrange an interview please contact our Chief Executive Officer Melissa Afentoulis or our Communications Officer on 9689 9588 or via email.