Activities to mark International Women’s Day

On Friday 8^th March 2013 St Lucia will again join the rest of the world in observance of International Women’s Day. The theme for this year is “The Gender Agenda: Gaining Momentum.” It acknowledges that there is global momentum for championing women’s equality. It also speaks to the progress made by women in attaining equal rights, and the vigilance and tenacity that is needed for further sustainable change.

As is customary the Division of Gender Relations in the Ministry of Health, Wellness, Human Services and Gender Relations is planning a number of activities to mark the observance, beginning with a Praise and Worship Service Celebrating Women on Thursday 7^th March from 5:00 p.m. at Serenity Park, Sans Souci. The Annual Luncheon Lecture will take on Friday 8^th March, the featured speaker is Attorney General Mrs Kim St Rose.

A number of other agencies such as the Status of Women’s Committee of the St Lucia Teachers’ Union and the Inter- American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) will also be hosting events for this year’s observance. St Lucia’s National Archivists Mrs Margot Thomas will be launching her book entitled “Pioneers & Forerunners Saint Lucia’s First Ladies”. Leadership Management International (LMI) St Lucia will be holding its first Women in Leadership Conference on Saturday 9^th March from 8:30 a.m. at the Bay Gardens Hotel and the St Lucia Crisis Centre is planning a workshop on parenting and its Annual General Meeting to coincide with the observance.

The Ministry’s programme continues on Monday 11^th March with an Open House at the Division of Gender Relations featuring an exhibition displaying women past and present involved in setting the Gender Agenda in St Lucia. The Jump Start Mentoring Programme for girls will begin on Tuesday 12^th March with an introductory session for the mentees. This programme is intended to link career-oriented young women and girls with professional women within their work setting, where they will be motivated and inspired to make decisions about future careers and professions from the examples of women working successfully in their chosen fields. The theme for the programme, which is in its second year, is Supporting ChangeMakers,

The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Human Services and Gender Relations is inviting the public to participate in this year’s observance by attending the events and by recognizing the outstanding contributions made by St Lucian women and girls over the years.

For details please contact:  The Division of Gender Relations tel: 45 30557