Monrovia – The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection announce the holding of this year’s International Women’s Day under the global theme “Press for Progress”. The National Theme is Act Now: Support the Liberian Women Agenda.
In commemoration of this year’s celebrations, President George Manneh Weah has issued a proclamation declaring Thursday, March 8, International Women’s Day and it is to be celebrated as a working holiday.
President Weah is to also deliver a special statement in commemoration of International Women’s Day schedule to take place at the SKD Sports Complex beginning at 8:00 A.M.
The International Women’s Day is an annual event held on March 8 of each year to celebrate women’s achievements, identify the rights and power of women and give them the status they deserve across nations. The day also seeks to honor the voices that go unheard, tears that go unnoticed and, the rights that are dominated.
This year’s themes are essential for the observance and celebration of all Liberians which can be achieved with the collective participation of women and men, boys and girls, as well as other marginalized groups.
According to a Gender Ministry release, the program marking the observance of IWD will take place in the 15 counties respectively while the activities for Montserrado County will begin on March 7, 2018 with an Inter–University- Debate between the University of Liberia and the African Methodist Episcopal Zion University.
The two universities will debate on two Gender Equality propositions: ‘How women and girls can achieve equality in Liberia.’
The Debate will also aim to empower target groups to take action by strengthening their ability to advocate for the rights of women and girls and this event will take place at the Cathedral Catholic School in Monrovia.
While on March 8, the formal celebration of International Women’s Day will begin with a parade commencing from the Ministry of Health in Congo Town to the SKD Sports Complex where three parallel panel discussions will be held:
Panel 1: Will include Liberian Matriarchs (grandmothers) who will share with the younger generation of women their experiences, challenges and success stories from the 20th century to present.
Panel 2: Will consist of women from both the public and private sectors – such as female legislators, a female Minister or Director of public corporation, female entrepreneur, community leader, and female caregiver.
Panel 3: will include young high school and university female students who will discuss with the audience their experiences, challenges and how they see themselves in the future, as the next generation of Liberian women.