Press Release
March 8, 2017

Message to Mark International Women’s Day by Minister of Gender Affairs

From Hon. Frederick Stephenson, Minister of National Mobilisation, Social Development and Gender Affairs.
 
St. Vincent and the Grenadines joins the rest of the world in celebrating International Women’s Day. The theme chosen by the Gender Affairs Division in the Ministry of National Mobilisation is “Be Bold for Change”.

As the Minister with responsibility for Gender Affairs, I take this opportunity to congratulate All the Women of the nation: Women in Politics, Women in the Public and Private Sectors, Women in Agriculture and Fisheries, Women in the Police and Security Forces, Women in Education, Women in Medicine, Women in Aviation, Women in the Arts and Crafts, Women who head Religious Organisations, Women in the field of Law and Women who are Masons and Carpenters and Electricians, Women who are heads of Households and Single Mothers. I salute you and I am honoured to be celebrating with you today.

Even while we recognise that there is much to celebrate, let us also reflect on the plight and condition of the many women and girls who suffer domestic abuse, the women and girls living with DisAbilities, the poor, the orphaned and widows. I assure you that as a nation we will continue to do all that is necessary to protect you.

The recently passed Domestic Violence Act is now in force. The Family Affairs Division will continue to educate the public on the Act and, to this end, more community outreach programmes will continue throughout the country, involving schools and community groups.

Today as we mark International Women’s Day, I take this opportunity to urge our men to join in the march and rally in support of the women of the nation as we highlight the achievements of women and girls. Let us continue to work together to ensure Gender Equality and Equity for All.

As the Minister with responsibility for Gender Affairs, I once again congratulate All the Women of SVG on International Women’s Day and pray for a good day of celebrations.

God Bless Us All.