Today is International Women’s Day, a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. Today and every day we must fight bias, stereotypes, and discrimination and #EmbraceEquity.

This year, we are shining the ACTRA spotlight on member Ferne Downey by naming her the 2023 ACTRA National Woman of the Year.

As a union leader, a performer and an activist, Ferne has been an inspiration and role model to many of us. One of her many responsibilities included chairing industry-wide round tables on sexual harassment and institutional change. Ferne raised the bar for women in our screen industry and she has been a tremendous force of change in the labour movement.

All communities benefit by advancing gender equality. Together, we must keep taking steps to make a positive impact that empowers all women.

In solidarity,
Eleanor Noble
ACTRA National President