Message to mark International Women’s Day
by Dennis De Peiza, General Secretary, Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB)
“This year, International Women’s Day is being observed under the theme, ‘Women in Leadership: Achieving an Equal Future In a COVID-19 World.’
“The theme draws attention to and celebrates the tremendous efforts made by women and girls around the world in shaping a more equal future and recovery from the [coronavirus] COVID-19 pandemic. This year’s theme is also aligned with that of the 65th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women, 15-26 March, 2021.
“The theme addresses: ‘Women’s full and effective participation and decision-making in public life, as well as the elimination of violence, for achieving gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls.’
“This emergence of women to leadership roles has effectively broken the barriers of gender bias and encourages gender equality. The Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados is supportive of the fact that women have reached the landmark where they are assuming leadership roles.”
“The Labour movement acknowledges that women account for the majority of the workforce and . . . accepts that in today’s society, gender gaps have decreased over time and, as a consequence, women are now given equal opportunities to emerge as great leaders. This emergence of women to leadership roles has effectively broken the barriers of gender bias and encourages gender equality. The Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados is supportive of the fact that women have reached the landmark where they are assuming leadership roles.
“At a time when the world is being impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, it is appropriate to recognise the fact that women are prominently featuring on the front lines, as health care workers, caregivers, innovators and community organisers.
“Women in strategic leadership roles within the healthcare system and those as political leaders have demonstrated good use of both knowledge and skills in leading the COVID-19 response and recovery efforts. Accepting the fact that COVID-19 is not a respecter of gender, it is to be expected that the leadership capacity and capabilities of women should be the same as before and continue after [the] COVID-19 pandemic has ended.
“As transformational leaders, it is anticipated that women will serve as role models, demonstrating that they are innovative and strategic thinkers.
“The Congress acknowledges the hardships endured by all women during the pandemic, especially those who may have been laid-off, and remains steadfast in its commitment to all workers. (PR)
