International Women's Day | Longford's Uruemu Adejinmi believes we need more women in authority to choose peace #IWD2022 #BreakTheBias

This past year saw Cllr Uruemu Adejinmi’s election to the prestigious position of Cathaoirleach for the Longford Municipal District. But the local lady also made national headlines as the first black female to be elected to a mayoral position in Ireland.

“Being elected Mayor of Longford Municipal District has been surreal,” Uruemu told the Longford Leader.

“The pride and inspiration this elevation has brought to my family, friends, Longford Community and the larger society is something I am thankful for every day.”

Uruemu has served as a local Fianna Fáil councillor for two years but spent many years before that working within the local community.

She is acutely aware of the challenges facing women in Longford and has her own thoughts on how those challenges can be addressed.

“Lack of job opportunities, dearth of housing, healthcare and childcare facilities, safety and socialising options are some challenges faced by women in Longford.

“Providing social and affordable housing will be a great relief for families currently struggling to meet financial obligations as we emerge from the Covid_19 pandemic,” she said.

“Securing quality jobs for Longford that will see a retention of young people and families as well as increase spend in our local businesses.”

As a strong member of the local community, Uruemu is extremely heartened by the efforts Longford people have put into donations for the men, women and children of Ukraine since the Russian invasion began.

“I am deeply saddened for the people who have had to flee their homes and communities and I am enraged that this is an avoidable catastrophe.

“Even if the war were to end today, imagine the damage to the mental and physical health of the people that had their lives so violently interrupted, their homes, schools and livelihoods damaged. It takes a moment to destroy and a lifetime to repair,” she said.

“I am also heartened by the level of support and solidarity shown by the people of Ireland and other global communities.

“This has strengthened my resolve to continue my political activism because we need more women, more reasonable, conscientious people in authority courageous enough to choose peace and stability in the interest of the people.”

How will you mark International Women’s Day on Tuesday, March 8?
I will be giving a talk in TUS Athlone Campus and attending Fianna Fáil Women’s Network International Women’s Day event in Dublin.

What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

International Women’s Day is a celebration of the contribution of Women in Society. 

#BreakTheBias is the theme for International Women’s Day 2022. Applying the theme to your own life and career, what might it mean to you and what is your view or interpretation on the theme?

It is of huge significance to me as I have broken many barriers in my professional life to date. Some of these barriers exist because of conscious and unconscious bias. Often these biases are counterproductive and it is important that we continue to challenge them to ensure a better, ethical future for all.

As a woman in politics, what challenges have you faced and how have you overcome them?

Women in politics face many challenges and some I have encountered are cultural, financial and social media related. I work hard to ensure I contribute to the development of my local community and I make sure I am accessible both online and in real-time. I seek support from my colleagues (female and male) and my Party HQ to ensure that I have the relevant information I need to execute my role effectively. I also take advantage of training and development opportunities to increase my knowledge and expertise. Family and friends are also a great support in my role as a politician.

What challenges do you feel women in Longford are facing at the moment and how can they be addressed?

Lack of job opportunities, dearth of housing, healthcare & childcare facilities, safety, and socialising options are some challenges faced by women in Longford. Providing social and affordable housing will be a great relief for families currently struggling to meet financial obligations as we emerge from the Covid-19 pandemic. Securing quality jobs for Longford that will see a retention of young people and families, as well as increase spend in our local businesses. Increased Garda resources will also enable women and girls feel safer in the Community.

What are your top three career highlights to date?

Being elected Mayor of Longford Municipal District has been surreal. The pride and inspiration this elevation has brought to my family, friends, Longford Community and the larger society is something I am thankful for every day.

Another career highlight is being a local Councillor and Rep for residents of Longford and Fianna Fail. Helping to improve the living conditions of people in the Community is a huge privilege.

My educational qualifications have helped shape who I am and how I execute my role. I believe in personal growth and development and I am always open to continuous learning.

According to the World Economic Forum, gender parity will not be attained for almost a century. Do you agree?

Gender parity can be attained depending on our willingness and readiness. Once there is consensus, legislation can be drafted in a short period of time to effect gender parity in every area of society including politics. I feel every woman (in my generation and older at least) has experienced some form of gender bias.

The murder of young teacher Ashling Murphy, the subsequent outpouring of grief, solidarity, vigils held worldwide and anger about it firmly put a spotlight on attitudes towards and violence against women. Have you witnessed change? What needs to change? 

The news of Ashling Murphy’s murder was a huge shock indeed and it brought to the fore worries that women have and behaviours that have been normalised because violence against women remains a worrying trend in our society. We certainly need a shift in mindset, one which can be brought about by changes to our education system (for example) – transition away from same-sex schools would be one way of addressing this issue. Ensuring boys and girls are educated together from junior infants right through to leaving certificate year will help ensure the curriculum is gender-neutral. We need to challenge stereotypes and make every effort to encourage young people to explore all career options.

With Covid-19 pandemic restrictions lifting, what have we learned over the past two years and what are your hopes for the future? 

I have learned that the quickest route out of adversity is working together and leaving no one behind. Everyone has a role to play in our community and we are stronger when we work together. My hope for the future is to create a world of equal opportunity for all in society through ethical political leadership and inspire others to grow and excel in their chosen field of endeavour.

The invasion of Ukraine has seen men and women go through untold pain and fear. What are your own thoughts on what is happening in Ukraine now?

I am deeply saddened for the people who have had to flee their homes and Communities and I am enraged that this is an avoidable catastrophe. Even if the war were to end today, imagine the damage to the mental and physical health of the people that had their lives so violently interrupted, their homes, schools and livelihoods damaged. It takes a moment to destroy and a lifetime to repair.

I am also heartened by the level of support and solidarity shown by the people of Ireland and other global communities. This has strengthened my resolve to continue my political activism because we need more women, more reasonable, conscientious people in authority courageous enough to choose peace and stability in the interest of the people. 

Who are two ladies who have inspired you in your own life and explain why?

Jacinda Ardern for her ethical political leadership and Beyonce for her confidence and excellence.

Check out our other IWD interviews with inspirational Longford women at the link below:

International Women's Day | Celebrating some of Longford's amazing women #IWD2022 #BreakTheBias