The Municipality of Brighton is flying the Women’s Institute flag this week in front of its office to honour the organization’s 125th anniversary.
One of the longest standing sisterhoods in the world, founded in Ontario and now worldwide, is celebrating a major milestone. From the first meeting in Stoney Creek, Ontario on February 19, 1897 to today’s global network of branches, Women’s Institute (WI) has continued to provide a social connection, education source, and community service opportunity for women. Since founding, the mission and vision of the organization rapidly spread, as women everywhere embraced the movement for a better future for their family, their communities, and themselves. Now, in the era of social media and particularly during the pandemic, women are feeling isolated in a different way. WI answers this need.
Over the years, the WI has been at the forefront of multiple causes. The original goal of WI was to teach women how to keep their families healthy and well fed. Naturally, these educational gatherings also offered a much-needed social connection. By hosting community dances and card parties, they began to raise money and support community work, then later the war effort.
Most recently, WI has embarked on education campaigns around such topics as gender, Indigeneity, and Black history, and have undertaken campaigns to eradicate Lyme Disease and advocate for victims of human trafficking. WIs are members of the Associated Country Women of the World (ACWW), which holds consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council.
Locally, the Community York Road and Condrington Women’s Institute (WI) which is part of the Trent Valley area (Peterborough, Northumberland and Prince Edward Counties) has meetings monthly in Brighton, often with a guest speaker or group activity. Meetings include social time and a short business session to plan ongoing community involvement, support, and advocacy.
“Our regular meeting allows us to connect as friends and to get to know new people,” said Evelyn Peck. “Women of every age and stage are welcome to join us.”
If you are by the Municipality office this week, take a minute to look at the flags and remember the efforts of local women to make Brighton and area a healthy and safe place to live. For more information about the Women’s Institute (WI) visit www.fwio.on.ca.
