Empowering women to transform Society
Under the banner of Aashray Abhiyan, we decide to hold a debate on the theme Empowering women to transform society. Present in the Gathering were the youth, women from the various points of homeless communities, teachers and skill trainers. The guests of honor were Sisters Vinita and Valsa from Chennai, who were happy to be in our midst.
As the debate opened we spoke about power sharing, tins was addressed by Dorothy – power comes from knowledge; and for this we must take an oath to educate the girls child not only with high school education to ensure that our young women get skilled, get professional and are able to stand on their own feet. This will give them the dignity and respect they deserve when they get married and set up their own families and homes.
The other area is the capacity to make decisions, when a young girl expresses her desire to continue her studies; she should not be discouraged and should strangle her dreams. Every opportunity should be given to fulfill her dreams; there should be proper guidance so that young people do not move away from their focus.
The floor was open for a very interactive session and all present participated and freely expressed their views. The men present were delighted to share their views while the women agreed that there should be equality among both women and men as both are equally important to keep the family together. Neither is more important; both have different roles to play and we need to respect each other.
In conclusion six women and one man was honored with a shawlfrom the homeless communities who are exemplary; they balance the responsibility of home and society and are fearless –Rukmani devi - Sahgaadi Masjid; Saraswati devi - Malaai Pakkdi; Asha devi – Rainbow Fiedl; Kusum devi - Gaighat; Samima Khatun – Gayatri Mandir; Urmilla devi – Railway Crossing; Kailash Sahani - R Block. With a song in our heart and a desire to move ahead the group were served snacks before they left for their respective homes.