.

Home page

Text size

E-mail this page

ACHO DENE KOE/FORT LIARD - It wasn't anything fancy, but on March 8, a group of women gathered in Fort Liard just to celebrate what they are.

More than 14 women and a handful of children attended a potluck lunch organized in recognition of International Women's Day. It was just a good time to get together, eat, laugh and share stories, said Joanne Deneron, one of the organizers.

Women gathered in Fort Liard on March 8 for a potluck that celebrated International Women's Day. Participants include, from left, Mary Whitehead, Betty Grossetete, Daniele Gregoire, Dora Klondike, Kim Deneron, Joanne Deneron, Adele Klondike, Dolly Klondike, Eva Hope and Margaret Watson. - photo courtesy of Andrea Lochan

"We're thankful to be able to gather together like that," Deneron said.

The luncheon paid homage to Canada's theme for this year's International Women's Day, which was "Strong Leadership. Strong Women. Strong World: Equality." The gathering was all about showing support for women and recognizing their leadership abilities, Deneron said.

The Fort Liard women shared a meal of homemade turkey soup, turkey and baked goods. They also shared some humour.

"My little grandson said when's men's day," Deneron said.

"I said that's every day."

Deneron has been involved in organizing women's day events in the community in the past, although this was the first one in a few years, she said. The Union of Northern Workers Local 13 also sponsored this year's event.

"I thought it would be nice to celebrate women," said Margaret Watson, president of Local 13.

Watson said she was "blown away" by the number of people who attended the event.

Men were also welcomed to share in the meal, although none came, she said.

One participant, Daniele Gregoire the regional health promotion officer with Dehcho Health and Social Services, took the opportunity to share information on nutrition with some of the women.

"People stayed back after the lunch to chat," said Watson.