IWD, March 8th, marks a global recognition of the rights, achievements and protection of all women. From its inception over 100 years ago, the world has come together to keep the fires burning, and to shine a light on women’s issues. The empowerment of women crosses, racial, religious and cultural divides.
We, at RISE (St. Lucia) Inc., are committed to the development of all our young people, and see IWD as an opportunity to re-emphasize the importance of keeping our girls and women safe and promoting stronger ties between the sexes in order to create an optimally nurturing society that can produce physically and emotionally healthy young minds and bodies – the blueprint for a safe, peaceful nation.
The theme for this year’s IWD is #BeBoldForChange by:
l Challenging bias and inequality
l Campaigning against violence
l Forging women’s advancement
l Celebrating women’s achievements
l Championing women’s education
RISE calls on all media houses to implement programming that delivers on the above. We call on the Media to immediately cease and desist from the denigration of girls and women through music and inappropriate talk show banter.
RISE calls on leaders to be cognizant of women’s issues in their messaging and behavior. Leaders must have, and demonstrate, a mindset of respect for, and empowerment of women, that will be reflected in their policies as well as in their daily lives.
RISE calls on all girls and women to empower themselves with self-respect and self-love. Reject all attempts to objectify or demean women. We call on all girls and women to “Get up, stand up. Stand up for your rights”.
RISE will continue to strengthen its ties within Saint Lucian communities and beyond, by encouraging young people to take up the mantle of inclusive growth through active partnerships and support, appreciating and valuing each other’s differences, and recognising that we are all responsible. No longer do we see IWD as relegated to one day in a year, but to every day of every year.