Female residents at Avonbridge Care Home in Hamilton had a special guest for this year’s International Women’s Day (IWD) celebrations as Christina McKelvie MSP joined them to mark the occasion. The gathering provided an opportunity to reflect on the progress and challenges faced by women over the years, in line with the theme of ‘Inspire Inclusion’.
Dressed in purple, the symbolic colour of IWD, Christina McKelvie MSP engaged in heartfelt conversations with the residents over tea and cake. The room was adorned with purple bunting and adorned with portraits of influential women spanning generations, from Emile Pankhurst to Greta Thurnberg, symbolizing the diverse and impactful contributions of women throughout history.
Reflecting on the significance of the day, Christina McKelvie MSP emphasised the importance of acknowledging the progress made in women’s rights while recognising the ongoing need for further advancements. “This International Women’s Day, as we collectively embrace the theme of ‘Inspire Inclusion,’ it is paramount that we reflect on the important progress that has been made over the lifetimes of the women I have spoken to at Avonbridge Care Home,” she remarked. “They have seen significant improvements during their lives in terms of equality and prospects, but there is much more to be done – both here in Scotland and across the world – to better the lives of women.”
She continued, “It’s been amazing to hear their stories about the issues they faced over the decades, and how they’ve worked to overcome them. It’s also heartwarming to hear the hope they have for their granddaughters and great granddaughters’ futures, who have more opportunities than they did in their youth, but still face many of the same challenges.”
Emma Duffy, the manager at Avonbridge Care Home, expressed her gratitude for Christina McKelvie MSP’s visit, highlighting the value of intergenerational dialogue and storytelling. “It was wonderful to welcome Christina to the home to share International Women’s Day with our residents,” she said. “Hearing about their expectations and the limited opportunities that were available to them when they were younger puts into perspective how far we’ve come.”
She added, “Hearing about our residents’ lives is always inspirational. Having a prompt to talk about their history before coming to Avonbridge always brings up some fascinating anecdotes, which leave me in awe.”
The celebration at Avonbridge Care Home serves as a reminder of the resilience, strength, and wisdom embodied by women of all ages. Through meaningful conversations and shared experiences, residents and guests alike honor the achievements of women past and present while striving for a future of equality, inclusion, and empowerment.
