celebrate international women’s day with fernanda borges in belgrave

Ms Fernanda Borges, a leading East Timorese politician and the only female party leader in the national parliament, will be visiting Australia as part of International Women's Day (IWD) celebrations. I am pleased to be able to support Ms Borges visit to Yarra Ranges where she will speak at the screening of the documentary film Heru Ini Lafu: Weaving Life at the Earthly Pleasures Café in Belgrave on the 3rd March.

IWD celebrates the achievements of women, and provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress women have made. It is also a day to think about the challenges ahead on the path to equality.

This year also marks ten years since the people of East Timor voted for independence in a historic ballot. Fernanda Borges will speak about the critical role played by women in the struggle for independence, as well in cultural regeneration and national development. She will call for justice for the crimes against humanity perpetrated against the people of East Timor.

Heru Ini Lafu is a meditative and unique film that journeys into rural communities to show a side of East Timorese life that is rarely seen on the Australian screen. The film highlights women's contributions to the independence struggle and celebrates their critical role in cultural regeneration and national development. Most importantly, the film reveals the beauty of East Timorese culture and details the creative processes of traditional Tais weaving. It also demonstrates the positive role played by Australian community groups in women's empowerment and the fight against poverty.

I am proud to be supporting Ms Borges visit to Yarra Ranges and invite you to join with me to hear a wonderful woman, see a thought provoking film and enjoy a delicious organic lunch. Tickets cost $25 ($20 conc), if you would like to make a booking please call Earthly Pleasures Café on 9752 6744.