National Women’s Advisory Council Hosts National Women’s Symposium
Nassau, The Bahamas
Minister of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting, the Hon. Myles K. LaRoda, challenged women and girls attending the National Women’s Advisory Council (NWAC) National Women’s Symposium to ignite lasting change by reaffirming their commitment to building a Bahamas where the rights of women are not just recognized, but celebrated and protected.
The Call to Action
"Let this symposium ignite lasting change," Mr. LaRoda told his audience during the Opening Address. "Let this symposium not be a one-time event, but an ongoing Movement. The Government of The Bahamas recognizes that gender equality is not just a women’s issue, but a national imperative that affects economic growth, social stability, and the overall well-being of Bahamian communities."
The Power of Women
"Bahamian women have been the backbone of our society– trailblazers in politics, business, education, and community development," he said. "From the historic fight for voting rights to their roles in shaping national policies, our women have demonstrated resilience, leadership, and unwavering strength. We must never forget that women have always been the heart of this country, shaping the very fabric of our society. They are the silent architects of change, the unsung heroes of progress. However, progress must not breed complacency. Women must remain united with a common cause of lobbying for further change. It is our responsibility — as a government, as advocates, as citizens – to identify and challenge injustices and drive systemic change. Yet, while we acknowledge the progress made, we must also recognize the journey ahead."
The Way Forward
Women, and girls from across all age groups and sectors of society, packed the Bahamas Harvest Church, for the one-day symposium that was hosted by the National Women’s Advisory Council in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting, and its Department of Gender and Family Affairs.
Key Issues
Key issues impacting women across the country were discussed and/or addressed during Saturday’s Symposium, the first in a series of continued efforts to address social, legal, and other matters affecting and impacting women nationwide in order to develop a national roadmap. NWAC is an appointed body that was established to advance women’s affairs and social matters. Council members and its sub-committees all serve on a voluntary basis.
Protection Against Violence Act, 2023
Among those efforts was a Working Session that was designed around discussions on the Protection Against Violence Act, 2023, "with a view to making recommendations to the government with regards to the roll-out and implementation and to make any other comments or recommendations as to whether or not there are any gaps or loopholes in the legislation."
The Act’s Significance
The legislation was designed to serve as a pivotal framework to protect and support victims of violence, with a particular focus on empowering women. It not only upholds international obligations, but also establishes a domestic framework to address violence and raise public awareness. Its significance lies in providing victims with the necessary tools and support to overcome their traumatic experiences, ensuring their fundamental rights to dignity, compassion, and privacy.
Conclusion
The symposium was a powerful call to action, urging women to unite and press forward with unity, purpose, and determination. It is our responsibility as a government, as advocates, and as citizens to identify and challenge injustices and drive systemic change. As we stand together, let us reaffirm our commitment to building a Bahamas where the rights of women are not just recognized, but celebrated and protected.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the National Women’s Advisory Council’s aim with the symposium?
The symposium aimed to ignite lasting change by reaffirming women’s commitment to building a Bahamas where women’s rights are not just recognized, but celebrated and protected. - What was the theme of the symposium?
The theme was "Let’s Move," signifying that Bahamian women are not standing still, but are pressing forward with unity, purpose, and determination. - What was the significance of the Protection Against Violence Act, 2023?
The Act was designed to protect and support victims of violence, with a particular focus on empowering women, and to establish a domestic framework to address violence and raise public awareness.
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