Several women honoured for their contribution to Guyana
PPP/C Prime Ministerial candidate, Ambassador Elisabeth Harper being recognised for her contribution
AS part of activities for International Women’s Day, observed on May 8, the Human Services Ministry Wednesday held an activity to honour women who have contributed to the development of Guyana. The event was held at the Guyana International Conference Centre, Liliendaal last evening. Present were Minister of Human Services and Social Security Jennifer Webster, PPP/C Prime Ministerial candidate Ambassador Elisabeth Harper, and other distinguished women who have and are still playing a role in Guyana’s development.
A section of the gathering who attended the activity to honour women at the Guyana International Conference Centre, Liliendaal
International Women’s Day, which was launched in 1911, is celebrated each year on March 8. It is a day when organisations, religious communities, and governments engage in the quest for peace, democracy and equality, to mark the economic, political and social achievements of women
Minister Webster explained that on this day, Guyana had been recognising women for the role they play, looking back upon past struggles, accomplishments, and more importantly, looking aheadand discovering the untapped potential that awaits future generations of women.
She further noted that global activities to recognise women have grown from strength to strength and have become an event which brings together women and all other stakeholders to promote and advocate for a more cohesive and coordinated intervention towards addressing the critical needs of women in the social, political and economic spheres of life.
She expounded on the theme “Make it happen”, and the need for every woman to reflect on how she can make it happen and contribute, especially in a world where each woman can exercise her choice in all sectors.
A member of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha performing a cultural piece
“In Guyana, we have a lot to be proud of as we celebrate women and their contributions at all levels. Whilst we still face many challenges, our government is obligated to continue its efforts to promote the advancement and empowerment of all our women.” Minister Webster emphasised.
The empowerment of women can lead to economic growth, poverty reduction and good governance.
Speaking on violence against women, the minister further highlighted that effective action to promote women and girls’ empowerment does require a comprehensive national approach which should include preventative measures, consequences for perpetrators and the protection of victims.
Violence against women is one of the most pervasive crimes in society, and the key priority of government will be to end this scourge. She also mentioned the issue of gender equality and how Guyana has made significant progress in this regard.
At the event there were also cultural presentations in the form of dance, song and poetry by the Vision Band, Praise Prophetic Arts Ministry and the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour, Patrick Findlay also paid tribute to women.
Members of the Praise Prophetic Arts Ministry performing a cultural piece