Serving Everyone Equally Means Recognising Inequality
North East Lincolnshire Council’s administration has been challenged over its decision to remove the visible recognition of International Women’s Day from the Town Hall.
Liberal Democrat Group Leader Cllr Nicola Aisthorpe questioned the relevant Portfolio Holder at a council meeting, asking what message the decision sends to women and girls across North East Lincolnshire.
Defending the administration’s approach, the Portfolio Holder said: “Our job is to serve every resident equally.”
Cllr Aisthorpe responded that equality does not mean ignoring the fact that women and girls face particular inequalities and disproportionately experience forms of violence and abuse.
She repeatedly asked what message removing the recognition of International Women’s Day sends to women and girls, but did not receive a direct answer. The Deputy Monitoring Officer subsequently intervened and asked that a response be given.
When Cllr Aisthorpe pointed out that levels of violence against women and girls are not equal to those experienced by men, the Portfolio Holder said he would need to fact-check the figures.
“I asked a straightforward question. I was disappointed not to receive a direct answer, even after the Deputy Monitoring Officer intervened. International Women’s Day isn’t about preferential treatment. It recognises the inequalities women still face, celebrates their achievements and demonstrates a public commitment to tackling those inequalities. If the Reform administration believes removing that recognition is right, it should explain why.”
Councillor Nicola Aisthorpe