PAWTUCKET – March 6th marked a significant milestone as The Pawtucket Women’s History Month Committee and Senator Sandra Cano celebrated their 10th Annual International Women’s Day Celebration in the City of Pawtucket. This year’s event held extra significance as it commemorated a decade of empowering women and promoting inclusivity in the community.
“A decade of honoring the extraordinary achievements of women in Pawtucket is a testament to our community’s strength and perseverance,” said Laureen Grebien, the First Lady of Pawtucket. “As we commemorate this milestone, let’s reaffirm our commitment to building a society where every woman’s potential is realized and celebrated.”
This year, the event honored Liz Beretta-Perik, who last year was elected as the first woman Chair of the Rhode Island Democratic Party. In addition to Liz Beretta-Perik, the event also celebrated a total of 13 students from across the Pawtucket School District including elementary and middle schools. Students were selected by the Pawtucket Women’s History Month Committee, which prompted students to write an essay on this year’s theme: “Inspire Inclusion.”
“When we inspire others to understand and value inclusion, we forge a better world. And when women themselves are inspired to be included, there’s a sense of belonging, relevance and empowerment,” said Chair of the committee Erin Dube.
Three high school students were also recognized at this event for their selection to participate in this year’s Legislator-for-a-Day event organized by Senator Cano (District 8) and Representative Alzate (District 60). “Each passing year brings with it the chance to gather with our community and reaffirm the significance of every voice, especially those of our young girls and women,” expressed Senator Cano. “As women, it’s essential to pause and celebrate our milestones. My heartfelt gratitude to Erin Dube, Lori Urso, and Representative Karen Alzate for their dedication to the success of this event.”
Essay Contest Winners:
Richard Piedade Isabelle, Lyman B. Goff Middle School
Kayin Freeman, Joseph Jenks Junior High School
Yolianna Gambaro, Samuel Slater Middle School
Elizabeth Ibidabo, Elizabeth Baldwin Elementary School
Harmony Lopez, M. Virginia Cunningham Elementary School
Malia King, Flora S. Curtis Elementary School
Nia Hirsch, Curvin-McCabe Elementary School
Jexsieliz Ramos, Fallon Memorial Elementary School
Sorahlyah Cuartas, Nathanael Greene Elementary School
Abigail Ramirez Elisee, Agnes E. Little Elementary
Vayea Morales, Potter Burns Elementary School
Jenelle Adubofour, Francis J. Varieur Elementary School
Kiana Deloney, Henry J. Winters Elementary School
Legislator-for-a-Day Recipients
Jillian Gagnon, Jacqueline M. Walsh School
Margy Lima, Charles E. Shea High School
Natalia Alvarado, William E. Tolman High School
The event concluded with a panel that discussed the topic “Invest in Women: Financial & Career Empowerment” and guests enjoyed networking opportunities and refreshments from the women-owned Pawtucket business, Notes Coffee Co.
###