Marion Horner, Contributor
FORESTER’S FALLS – On February 19, 2022 the six members of the Forester’s Falls Women’s Institute met at the home of Branch President Betty Black for tea and dessert to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the founding of the Women’s Institute in Stoney Creek, Ontario in 1897.
A much needed social time during these pandemic times was enjoyed and everyone went home with a flower arrangement in W.I. colours of gold and royal blue to remember the occasion.
One of the longest standing sisterhoods in the world the W.I. 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.
Over the years, the W.I. has been at the forefront of multiple causes. The original goal of the W.I. 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. W.I.s are members of the Associated Country Women of the World (ACWW), which holds consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council.
There are several W.I. branches in Whitewater Region and women of every age are welcome.
