On this International Women’s Day, as the Director of STEMGuyana, I take a moment to reflect on the strides we have made as women in Guyana, while acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead. I want to pay homage to the millions of women, across all races, who have paved the way for us to pursue our aspirations. It is their courage and determination that has allowed us to stand tall as we work towards creating a strong foundation for the next generation of young women in Guyana.
While we have made progress in ensuring equality, liberty, and respect for all women in Guyana, there is still much work to be done. Although there is no doubt that my life today is vastly different from that of my mother’s and hers different from her mother’s, and I aspire for my daughters’ lives to be even more different than mine, It is still our collective responsibility to insist on equality, justice, and protections not only for ourselves, but for all women in Guyana, for all of our children, and for generations to come.
Today in Guyana, it is even more important that women have equal access to opportunities, as this is essential if we are to achieve the rapid pace of development of our nation to which we aspire. Women invest in education, careers, and homes, and they should be able to enjoy the full benefits of those investments by being empowered to participate fully in society and the economy, irrespective of race, politics, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion or class.
Despite the progress we have made, domestic and gender-based violence continue to be a scourge on our nation, disproportionately affecting women and girls. Maternal mortality rates remain high, and too many women with children are living in poverty. It is therefore vital that we work together to support each other, lobby for change, and create a safer society for ourselves, our children, and their children. We, the women of Guyana, share common experiences, and we all want to lead fulfilling lives while providing our children with opportunities to reach their full potential.
On this Women’s Day, I urge all women to unite as we work on those common issues which affect the quality of all of our lives. I urge you to not allow politics or race or religion or class to divide us, for together, we can more effectively create a better world for ourselves, our children and their children. Today, let us celebrate the remarkable strength, resilience, and accomplishments of women in Guyana and around the world. Happy Women’s Day!
