14 inducted to Women’s Commission

Gender equality in the workplace and home is something that women have been struggling for since the dawn of time. Over the years some strides have been made but there is yet plenty more to accomplish by the National Women’s Commission which is geared at ending all forms of discrimination against women. The N.W.C. hopes to end this divide and today inducted a new commission who will work hand in hand with the Executive Director, Ann Marie Williams. The fourteen strong members of the non-partisan group includes twelve women as well as two men, Dylan Vernon and Osmany Salas. Chair of the commission, Esther Ramirez, presented NWC’s plan of action at today’s induction ceremony.

Esther Ramirez, Chair, Nat’l Women’s Commission
“We have finally tried to strengthen the National Women’s Commission and we have come up with a master plan that encompasses more than two years. But our main strategic plan for right now is the two years for which our commissioners are commissioned for, 2008 to 2010.”

Jose Sanchez
“And exactly what is that more or less?”

Esther Ramirez
“Well, the overall goal is gender equality, gender equity and women empowerment. Gender equality seeks to eliminate discrimination of whatever sort. The equity is the equal opportunity and responsibilities for both men and women that’s why it’s called gender equity. Women empowerment is very crucial for women to be able first to access roles and play a greater role in development and leadership in the country.”

Jose Sanchez
“What power does this group have?”

Esther Ramirez
“Well, I think we will have a lot of teeth and that is mainly due to the support that we have from the Human Development Minister and Social Transformation and of course, our honorable prime minister. You heard both speeches, they are committed to this and that will give us much more energy, much more kinetic energy to start working and we will have a lot of pull.”

The commission’s plan was presented to Prime Minister Dean Barrow and Minister of Human Development and Social Transformation, Peter Martinez.