Table of Contents
Creating safe spaces for women: Empowerment through community
In a world where safety and connection are paramount, women across Saskatchewan are taking the initiative to create spaces that foster both. With International Women’s Day as a backdrop, these grassroots movements are not just about gathering; they are about empowerment, friendship, and reclaiming public spaces.
She Runs at Night: A community of runners
One such initiative is She Runs at Night, founded by Elizabeth Michalski in Regina. This group meets in the evenings, allowing women to run together in a supportive environment. Michalski emphasizes the importance of safety in numbers, stating, “I know from my own personal experience running at night — it made me feel scared, that’s for sure.” The group not only promotes physical activity but also aims to build a community where women can feel comfortable and supported.
“The response has been really good from people,” Michalski adds, highlighting the positive impact the group has had on its members. By providing a platform for women to connect through running, she hopes to encourage more women to engage in physical activities at any time of the day, breaking the barriers of fear and isolation.
Girls Who Like to Do Stuff: Connecting through shared interests
In Saskatoon, a similar spirit of community is embodied by the group Girls Who Like to Do Stuff, started by two university students, Maria Wagner and her friend. Their mission is to create a welcoming environment for women to gather without any specific agenda.
“It’s just important to have girl spaces for nothing in specific that people can feel kind of comfortable,” Wagner explains.
What began as a small gathering quickly gained traction after a viral TikTok video, leading to an overwhelming response that forced them to close the waitlist.
“We didn’t expect it to blow up the way that it did,” Wagner admits. The pandemic had made it challenging for many to forge new friendships, and this group emerged as a solution to that problem.
Local support and future growth
Both initiatives have garnered support from local businesses eager to provide venues for their events, further enhancing the sense of community. “We were incredibly lucky,” Wagner notes, expressing gratitude for the collaboration. These groups are not just about socializing; they are about creating safe spaces where women can express themselves freely and build lasting connections.
As these movements continue to grow, they embody a powerful message: women can reclaim their spaces and support one another in the process. For those interested in joining these empowering communities, more information can be found on their Instagram pages: @sherunsatnight and @girlswholiketodostuff.
