‘Feminition’ should be an annual event

TIMES INT'L

Dear Editor,

As Guyana advances, the focus on women’s inclusiveness was necessary. Currently, the detractors are left without a weapon, so they are stuck in the groove of ‘criticising for criticism’s sake.’ Prior to Feminition, the word was that the women of Guyana were being neglected. That was a silly ploy by the ‘enemies of the PPP/C, and the state as a whole. One has only to take a quick peek into history to realise that these “ladies of Guyana” have been a forgotten entity for too long. So the issue is being redressed.

First, the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security must be commended.

Its members have been working assiduously to create a culture in which the women of Guyana can be seen for who they are: different in gender only, but very equal in being. The right and privilege are theirs to do what they want, and be whomever they desire, in terms of careers. Prior to the present era, they were not only obscure, but left on their own. And here was where their trouble resided.

In the past, domestic abuse against women seemed so entrenched it was accepted as the status quo. Now, that is changing rapidly. Today, under the aegis of the PPP/C, and especially through the conscious and prudent work of Minister Priya Manickchand, women are not only afforded their rights, they are being proactive. Unlike, ‘Celie’ in Alice Walker’s The Colour Purple, they have a place of solace against the ills of the society. Their refuge, recreation and recourse are not a vacuous, irresponsive “Dear God.” They have voices in every facet. These voices are heard loud and clear in the realm of education, jobs, careers and profession; in culture and politics. Thus one notices that there is ‘empowerment,’ and this was so sadly lacking in the past. So ‘Feminition’ is most necessary, relevant, and timely. As a closing note, one must be cognizant of the fact that gender equality is not just a matter of women being passive and left undisturbed. Women, for sure now in Guyana, have a voice and a place from which to work. They can empower themselves, and be an authentic, viable force for collective good, not only for themselves, but for Guyana as a whole. Hopefully, Feminition will be an annual event.

Respectfully,

Attiya Baksh

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