Liberal Democrats celebrate International Women's Day

11.01.00pm GMT Mon 8th Mar 2010

This annual event, celebrated on 8 March acknowledges the achievements of women across the world while also focusing on the continued disadvantages millions of women still face. Nick Clegg MP, Leader of the Liberal Democrats, said: "I am delighted to pledge my support and that of my party to International Women's Day 2010.

"As we celebrate the great strides that have been taken towards gender equality, it is also important to focus on battles for fairness, both at home and abroad, yet to be won."

Cllr Karen Chilvers (parliamentary candidate for Hornchurch and Upminster), said: "From an early age, I can remember being told about the Suffragette movement and the fight those women had to put up for equality. As a consequence, I have voted in every election I was eligible to vote in. It makes me sad when women don't exercise their rights to vote.

"I am delighted to be a member of the Liberal Democrats who are fighting for fairness in all walks of life and we certainly need to see more women in public office. I am pleased that half our candidates for the forthcoming borough council elections are women too.

"There are also some really inspirational women standing for parliament for the Liberal Democrats and I hope that girls are inspired to get involved and be what they want to be!"

Added Cllr Meral Ece: "I am pleased to add my support to International Women's Day. It is crucial that people are able to come together to celebrate the achievements of women around the world. However this is not a time to just be reflective but also a time to look forwards and work together to stamp out all signs of inequality that threatens to undermine our society."

"As the first woman from the Turkish community to be elected as councillor, I am a strong supporter of International Women's Day, and campaigner for more women in public life. We must join forces and speak out against the continuing evil of so-called 'honour killings', most recently the terrible death of a young Turkish woman, Tulay Goren. Woman across the world continue to suffer. We have a duty to be the voice and the change that will make a difference to their lives."