Honoring Susan Ryan AO with a New Sculpture

Artist Lis Johnson has recently unveiled a new sculpture of Susan Ryan AO in the Old Parliament House Senate Rose Gardens. This sculpture pays tribute to the late Honourable Susan Ryan AO, who was a pioneering figure in Australian politics and women’s rights activism.

Susan Ryan AO: A Trailblazer in Australian Politics

  • Susan Ryan AO was the first female Senator for the ACT and served in the Senate from 1975 to 1988.
  • In 1983, she became the first woman in a federal Labor Cabinet, breaking barriers and paving the way for future female leaders.
  • One of her significant accomplishments was the introduction and passage of groundbreaking legislation that aimed to prevent discrimination based on sex, marital status, or pregnancy, and dismantle workplace barriers.

The Sculpture and Its Significance

The sculpture, titled ‘Senator Ryan Addresses the Rally,’ captures a moment from 1977 when Susan Ryan addressed a women’s work rally. Positioned in the Rose Gardens, the sculpture invites visitors to engage with it and reflect on Susan Ryan’s legacy.

  • The sculpture was funded by the ACT Government as part of the Recognising Significant Women Through Public Art program, which aims to address gender representation imbalances in public art collections.
  • Renowned artist Lis Johnson was chosen to create the sculpture, known for her skill in figurative sculpting and portraiture.
  • Justine Butler, Susan Ryan’s daughter, expressed her delight at the choice of location for the sculpture, noting its significance to her family.

Legacy and Commemoration

The unveiling of the sculpture coincides with the 40th anniversary of the commencement of the Sex Discrimination Act, a milestone in Susan Ryan’s advocacy for gender equality. The ACT Heritage Library is showcasing archival material related to Susan Ryan AO, providing insight into her life and achievements.

Through this sculpture, Susan Ryan’s contributions to Australian politics and women’s rights are immortalized, inspiring future generations to continue her legacy of equality and empowerment.

FAQs

Who was Susan Ryan AO?

Susan Ryan AO was the first female Senator for the ACT and a trailblazer in Australian politics, known for her advocacy for women’s rights and gender equality.

What was Susan Ryan AO’s significant achievement?

One of Susan Ryan AO’s major accomplishments was the introduction and passage of legislation to prevent discrimination based on sex, marital status, or pregnancy, and dismantle workplace barriers.

Title: The Rise of E-commerce in the Post-Pandemic Era

Introduction:
The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the shift towards e-commerce, with more consumers turning to online shopping for their everyday needs. This trend is expected to continue even as restrictions ease, as people have grown accustomed to the convenience and safety of shopping from home. In this article, we will explore the factors driving the rise of e-commerce in the post-pandemic era and its implications for businesses and consumers.

The Growth of E-commerce:

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we shop, with e-commerce experiencing unprecedented growth in recent years. Some key factors driving this growth include:

1. Convenience: Online shopping offers consumers the convenience of browsing and purchasing products from the comfort of their homes, 24/7.

2. Safety: With concerns about health and safety still prevalent, many consumers prefer to avoid crowded stores and opt for contactless delivery options.

3. Variety: E-commerce platforms offer a wide range of products and brands, giving consumers access to a global marketplace at their fingertips.

4. Personalization: Online retailers use data and algorithms to personalize the shopping experience, making recommendations based on past purchases and browsing behavior.

5. Competitive Pricing: E-commerce platforms often offer competitive prices and discounts, making it easier for consumers to find the best deals.

Implications for Businesses:

The rise of e-commerce presents both opportunities and challenges for businesses:

1. Increased Reach: E-commerce allows businesses to reach a wider audience beyond their physical location, leading to potential growth in sales and brand awareness.

2. Logistics: Businesses need to invest in efficient logistics and delivery systems to meet the demand for online shopping and ensure timely deliveries.

3. Competition: The e-commerce space is becoming increasingly competitive, with businesses vying for consumers’ attention and loyalty.

4. Data Analytics: Businesses can leverage data analytics to gain insights into consumer behavior and preferences, allowing them to tailor their marketing strategies and product offerings.

5. Customer Experience: Providing a seamless and personalized customer experience is crucial for businesses to retain customers and build brand loyalty in the e-commerce landscape.

Conclusion:

The rise of e-commerce in the post-pandemic era is reshaping the retail industry, with more consumers embracing online shopping for its convenience, safety, and variety. Businesses need to adapt to this changing landscape by investing in e-commerce capabilities, optimizing their online presence, and enhancing the customer experience to stay competitive in the digital marketplace.

FAQs:

Q: What are some key trends driving the growth of e-commerce?
A: Some key trends driving the growth of e-commerce include the rise of mobile shopping, the popularity of subscription services, and the increasing adoption of voice commerce.

Q: How can businesses optimize their e-commerce strategy?
A: Businesses can optimize their e-commerce strategy by investing in user-friendly website design, implementing SEO best practices, leveraging social media marketing, and providing excellent customer service.

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