Bermuda joined in the global observance of International Women’s Day today with a procession through Hamilton.

More than a hundred people then gathered in Par-la-Ville Park for a celebration to raise awareness and “be bold for change” — this year’s theme of the day.

“We wanted to have a procession to raise awareness and be bold for change,” Caroline Desmarais, with the Bermuda Women’s Day Committee, told The Royal Gazette.

“And I think being bold requires action and that’s why we wanted to do a walk and then a celebration in the park.”

Co-organiser Katarina Hoskins added: “We had an amazing crowd, supporters from Somersfield and E&Y [Ernst and Young], our main sponsor, came with a good crowd.

“And in general, we got really positive feedback from many friends of mine who came out and supported the event.”

International Women’s Day is observed worldwide on March 8 to celebrate the social, political and economic achievements of women while calling for gender equality.

Ms Desmarais said it is an important day because it highlights the advancement of women’s right while also raising awareness “to the fact that we have a long way to come”.

“The world economic forum is predicting that we reach gender parity in 2186 and that’s far too long to wait so we really do all need to take action to lessen the gap,” she added.

“Everyone can make a difference. You may think it has to be a huge action but really just mentoring a young girl or discussing women’s rights issues with your peers, does make a difference.”

The celebration in Par-la-Ville Park featured music and Zumba. Brown bag lunches were available from Bulli Social, with the proceeds to go to the Women’s Resource Centre.

Ms Hoskins, who noted that this year’s turnout had exceeded last year’s, added that they hope to grow the event for 2018.