Linden women honour, spread hope on, International Women’s Day

Women of Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) joined with women across the world in observing International Women’s Day 2018 on Thursday with a grand march past and appreciation ceremony.
The events were organized by Virtuous Women on a Mission, Women on the Move, and Cutting Edge, in collaboration with other stakeholders.
A procession of women marched from the Wismar Market Square to the Mackenzie Sports Club Ground in Linden, where an empowering ceremony was held. Delivering the main address was Linda Johnson of the Women on a Mission international organization, who urged women to reach out and encourage each other, not only on the occasion of International Women’s Day.
Under the motto of her organization, Johnson noted that, together, women are stronger, as she urged them to come together and inspire each other.
“We need to empower and encourage each other in order to rise…and we can rise together”, Johnson stated.
Lurlena Roberts of the No Woman No Cry organization, in delivering brief remarks, said the objectives of the celebration have evolved over the years to embrace culture and ethnicity, and to emerge as a celebration of appreciation, respect and love towards women.
She stressed the importance of celebrating women, and regretted that violence is still being meted out against them.
Roberts also implored all to embrace this year’s International Women’s Day theme. “Women’s empowerment lies in honouring yourself and treating yourself with respect,” she said.
First Lady of Linden, Nikosi Holland, speaking on behalf of the Linden Youth Leaders, stated that it was a day to celebrate womanhood and identity. She noted that it is also an occasion which often highlights harsh truths about the still prevailing issue of gender inequality and abuse of women.
“I am less inclined than I used to be to believe that our power has been taken away from us. I’m more inclined to say that we have started giving up our power…our power and rights, yes, sometimes are trampled, but at times we also act as if we are powerless…
“I’m not purporting that women’s rights are always protected. In fact, the high rate of sexual and physical violence and socio- economic disadvantages is evidence enough of this reality. However, it is imperative that we demonstrate our determination to live as the powerful creatures that we were created to be…,” Holland noted.
She further urged women not to miss the opportunity to enjoy their rights, as she alluded to the issue of self-deprivation of women, which she noted is prevalent in our society.
Holland also called on women not to support any event or activity that is degrading to them. She said women are powerful and valuable even more than they realize, and have the power to mould and shape the attitudes of their children. She has urged women to embrace their power and values.
Several women, also, were awarded for their outstanding contributions to society.