Monday March 8th is all about the achievements of women.
Some historical records show that the day may have started in New York City on February 28th, 1909 and was called National Woman’s Day by the Socialist Party of America.
The United Nations designated March 8th as International Women’s Day shortly after recognizing 1975 as International Women’s Year.
Locally Thunder Bay is full of female leaders, including with St. Joseph’s Foundation and the Cultural Development and Events division within the City of Thunder Bay.
Gail Brescia
The Executive Director says her organization was actually started by the Sisters from Sault Ste Marie.
“We were launched way back in the 1840’s by the Sisters of St. Joseph which when I read the history I think wow I’m standing on the shoulders of giants,” says Brescia.
The sisters history also goes back to the 1880’s when they arrived at Prince Arthur’s Landing (now known as Thunder Bay) to teach and provide spiritual support in the parish.
“There’s a lot of impact that the sisters have had throughout our community but certainly nothing that I had run into in my life or research before joining the foundation,” notes Brescia.
The Foundation is separate from the St. Joseph’s Care Group but works to raise funds that support capital purchases for the Care Group.
Louisa Costanzo
The Supervisor of Cultural Development and Events is a recent winner of an Achievement Award from Festival Events Ontario.
The organization recognized Thunder Bay’s adaptation of the Live on the Waterfront Performance Series to a virtual format due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
“There’s still a lot of work to do,” Costanzo remarked. “I mean here we are in 2021 and we’re still looking for equality in many areas, including general life and in leadership.”
The Supervisor has some advice for young girls who want to reach the level of being in a management or supervisor role.
“The negative self-talk is a little louder than it needs to be,” adds Costanzo. “I would say believe in yourself and don’t be afraid to stand up and speak up when the opportunity presents itself.”
Gail Brescia Interview
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Louisa Costanzo Interview
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