New Delhi : CARE and WPC organized an event as a continued celebration of the International Women’s Day, which was themed on Women’s Empowerment called “Inspiring Change: Towards a World of Equality, Peace and Justice” at the Indian Islamic Centre, New Delhi. CARE India and WomenPowerConnect (WPC) have partnered to create a public discourse and ignite debate and d
iscussions around this issue.
International Women’s Day is celebrated in many countries around the world. It is an occasion to review how far they have come in their struggle for equity, peace and development in the urban milieu both at home and at the workplace.
In view of the theme for this year ‘Inspiring Change’, they have come together to execute this standalone event around Violence Against Women at home and at workplace, to dedicate the day to all those women and girls who have struggled and who have been role models to show how they can take charge of their lives and empower the community.
On this occasion Rashmi Singh, Executive Director, Gender Equity & Diversity unit, CARE India said, “As we continue our celebration of the International Women’s Day, we together with WPC, would like to highlight the different aspects of violence faced by women at home and at the workplace. The invisible impenetrable power of a woman, who in spite of all the challenges faced by her still shows an unrelenting resilience, should be showcased so that she can become a role model for all. Through this event, we are making an attempt to capture the strength of women and ensure social equality and justice”.
Dr. RanjanaKumari, Chairperson, WPC opened the event by highlighting the importance of women participation in the society. She insisted an active participation of women’s in every field whether it’s professional field, politics, power or democracy. Everywhere there are talks of women’s safety & security, it’s very important but there are other vital issues where focus is not there.
Ms. Gouri Choudhury, WPC Treasurer, GB member and Action India Director elucidated the importance of the International Women’s Day and its beginning in India and the world.
Mr. Kamal Sharma, Executive Director (Operations & Finance), CARE India gave a brief about the event saying, this “event is an encapsulation of all the challenges and grievances faced by women in their daily lives. More than that, it is a celebration of all women, who despite these struggles, are able to move forward and remain resilient. It is a salute to those who inspire change and become role models in their fight against social injustice”.
Ms. KamlaBhasin, Advisor, Sangat and a renowned social activist in an invigorating speech said that access over resources and progeny are most important aspects of women empowerment.
Ms. Amarjeet Kaur, General Secretary, AITUC talked about the crucial role of political will in bringing about women empowerment.
During the program, Maya Krishna Rao – an actor, director, writer, educator and activist presented her play ‘Walk’, a beautiful depiction of a woman’s desire for freedom and the persisting fear in the society, due to violence against women. Magician Ishamudin Khan presented magic to create awareness about women empowerment. The evening concluded with a musical presentation by Ashish Dha a freelance sound designer, composer and re-recording mixer..
There were also various testimonies by members and stakeholders of Stop Acid Attack, Sakha Cabs, Action India and CARE India, which were not only heart wrenching but also showed the courage of a woman. The community women sang a number of women empowerment songs which kept us on our feet.