Celebrating Courage and Conviction: International Women’s Day 2025
In the general celebration and triumph that surrounded the inauguration of a new leader, it was left to a diminutive and quietly spoken woman to change the narrative. The courageous and heroic words of Mariann Budde, Bishop of Washington, at the traditional inter-faith prayer service during President Trump’s inauguration, reminded everyone of the power of compassion and love for the marginalised—the reviled and the outcast, the low-paid and the immigrant.
Facing the highest political office in the United States, she called for mercy, dignity, and truth. She urged the President to ‘have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now,’ particularly those from vulnerable communities. ‘In the name of our God, I ask you to have mercy, Mr President, on those in our communities whose children fear their parents will be taken away, and that you help those who are fleeing war zones and persecution in their own lands to find compassion and welcome here,’ she said. ‘May God grant us the strength and courage to honour the dignity of every human being, to speak the truth to one another in love and walk humbly with each other.’
The President, of course, was furious. He demeaned and denigrated her, stating that the ‘so-called Bishop … is not very good at her job.’ He demanded that ‘she and her church owe the public an apology.’ The conservative media vilified Budde. Some even sought to challenge her right to speak so openly. Yet she did not falter. With quiet grace and steadfast resolve, she embodied the strength that true faith calls us to—a faith that stands firm in the face of opposition.
To read more about Bishop Budde or watch her plea, click here.
Each year on International Women’s Day, we are invited to reflect on the remarkable contributions of women—women who, like Bishop Budde, have shaped our world with courage, conviction, and compassion. Women who have used their voices and positions to uphold justice, even when it may be unpopular, to ensure a world of respect and equality for all.
As a Marist school, we hold a deep respect for the role of women in shaping the faith and values of our community. Mary, the first disciple and our model of faith, is the ultimate example of courage and grace. The women in our own lives—our mothers, sisters, teachers, and friends—also inspire, support, and lead us in ways both seen and unseen. Today, we honour them.
But International Women’s Day is more than just a celebration; it is also a challenge. As young men in a Marist school, how do we ensure that our school, our workplaces, and our world become places where women’s voices are heard, valued, and celebrated? How do we act with courage and integrity to stand against injustice? How do we, like Bishop Budde, ensure that our faith compels us to act in the name of dignity, mercy, and truth?
May we, as a community, continue to walk in the footsteps of those who have shown us the way—women and men who, with quiet courage, have shaped a world more reflective of God’s love for all.
Matthew Hutchison
Headmaster
