Wednesday, 18 March 2026

 Anasina GRAY-BARBERIO (Northern Metropolitan) (09:56): On 8 March we marked International Women’s Day with the theme ‘Balance the scales’, and I was proud to stand with the Pacific Business Networks and share space with my Pacific sisters. I hosted the Multicultural Women’s Alliance Against Family Violence to advocate against the ongoing epidemic of gender-based violence. On 15 March we marked International Day to Combat Islamophobia, falling during the holy month of Ramadan, a time of reflection and community for many Muslim Victorians, despite the poison of anti-Muslim hate being on the rise, and to honour the memories of those massacred in Christchurch. This Saturday 21 March we recognise the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. These are not just calendar dates; these are reminders to us of how deadly and life-threatening racism, discrimination and gendered violence can be. Women from multicultural, migrant and refugee communities, First Nations women, women with disabilities and trans women often experience these risks at the intersection of race, culture and gender. Despite these compounding barriers, women continue to lead, advocate and uplift those around them. They support families, strengthen communities and drive progress. To the men in this chamber and beyond: take a moment to acknowledge the women in your lives – the mothers, sisters, partners, colleagues and community leaders. Their support, sacrifice and leadership help make the achievements of so many.