Dear all,
I pasting below a report by Sr. Sabina Rifat, Coordinator, URI Women Wing Pakistan on a seminar which was organized on 25th of November to observe International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. I am sure you find this report very interesting and inspiring as well. I will also try to send a few photos with the hope they will get through and will not bounce back from the URI-Contacts. If so I will request Deepak to do me this favor of sending photos. He is always very kind.
May Peace Prevail On Earth!
In peace,
fr James Channan OP
URI Regional Coordinator Pakistan
URI Pakistan Organizes a Seminar on International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women Lahore, Pakistan
The URI Women Wing Pakistan organized a one day seminar on International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women in the Hall of URI Regional Office in Lahore on 25th of November, 2009. Ms. Syedda Hina Babar Ali, a prominent social worker and human rights activist was the Chief Guest, whereas, Ms. Shumaila Kanwal, Prof. Ms. Hameeda Shaheen and Sr. Sabina Rifat, Coordinator, URI Women Wing Pakistan presented papers on this occasion. Ms. Ameena Hameed presented lovely songs in her melodious voice; children and staff of ABC (A Better Community) For All School presented tableaus and songs. University of the Punjab, students: Ms. Sana Saeed, Ms. Mawara Musawar, Ms. Mariam Saeed, Ms. Amal Musawar presented special messages and performed on songs whereas, Ms. Zara Pervez a young and talented student of Sacred Heart School, presented moving comments on this occasion. The message of Mr. Ban Ki-Moon, Secretary General of the UN was also read. Over 50 women of Muslim, Christian and Bahai faiths participated, whereas, a good number of men were also present. These women included; professors, teachers, school and university students, human rights activists and promoters of peace and gender balance.
The seminar started with prayers for the sacred scriptures of Muslim, Christianity and Bahai’ religions and prayer for world peace were offered. During the seminar it became very evident that, event in the 21st century were we are living in, women around the world are made victims of mental, psychological and physical torture and violence. In many countries, including USA and Europe, sexual harassment of women, especially at home, in the educational institutions and work places is common. One out of every 4 women in USA goes through such violence against her at home, school, or work place. She experiences discrimination of some sort and is harassed on the basis of her gender. In Pakistan too women are raped, killed, and acid thrown upon them and they are discriminated against. However, the good thing in Pakistan is that women are assured 33 % representation in the National and Provincial Assemblies. Very recently in November, 2009, a Bill against Sexual Harassment of Women is passed by the Parliament of Pakistan. However, mere making of the law in not enough – it must be implemented. Women of Pakistan are contributing a lot for the betterment of the society and very often acquire higher position then men in educational institutions. They can play even more role provided they are given opportunities and good working environment.
It is prime duty of women to raise voice for their rights and against all sorts of violence and discrimination done against to them. All women can and must play their full role for the betterment of the society and world. They must never support or promote such discrimination done to them and this must start this from their home.
It was a very successful seminar and lasted for 2 hours. The aims and objectives of URI were also shared with the participants and how URI is serving as an instrument to bring a positive change in the world and bring healing and reconciliation among all. Women were also invited to become members of the URI.
Reported by:
Sr. Sabina Rifat
Coordinator
URI Women Wing Pakistan
Lahore, Pakistan
27 November, 2009
