NWAC Symposium Speaker LaRoda Challenges Women and Girls to Ignite Lasting Change

The Bahamas held its first National Women’s Symposium, themed “Let’s Move,” signaling a renewed national focus on gender equality and the protection of women’s rights. The symposium, spearheaded by the National Women’s Advisory Council (NWAC) in partnership with the Ministry of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting, and its Department of Gender and Family Affairs, brought together women and girls of all ages and backgrounds to address pressing issues impacting their lives and chart a national roadmap for future action. Minister Myles K. LaRoda emphasized the symposium’s importance, calling it a national imperative linked to economic growth, social stability, and the overall well-being of Bahamian communities. He urged attendees to transform the event into a sustained movement for change, recognizing the historical contributions of Bahamian women while acknowledging the continued need for progress.

Central to the symposium’s agenda was the newly enacted Protection Against Violence Act, 2023. A dedicated working session allowed participants to delve into the Act’s provisions, explore its implementation strategies, and identify potential gaps or loopholes. This collaborative approach aimed to ensure the Act’s effectiveness in protecting and supporting victims of violence, particularly women. The legislation marks a significant step in addressing the pervasive issue of violence within the Bahamas, establishing a domestic framework that aligns with international obligations. The establishment of the Protection Against Violence Commission and Secretariat under the Act will play a crucial role in coordinating stakeholders, allocating resources, and providing technical assistance to strengthen the national response.

Beyond the Protection Against Violence Act, the symposium addressed a range of other critical issues. Discussions focused on mental health, the role of women in religious leadership and nation-building, and opportunities for women in business and entrepreneurship. Successful female business leaders shared their experiences and insights, providing inspiration and guidance to aspiring entrepreneurs. The inclusion of young women in the symposium was particularly highlighted, recognizing their potential as future leaders and agents of change.

The Protection Against Violence Act, 2023, stands as a pivotal piece of legislation aimed at creating a safer environment for all Bahamians. It establishes a comprehensive framework to protect and support victims of violence, particularly women, and emphasizes empowering survivors to overcome their traumatic experiences. The Act underscores the fundamental right of victims to dignity, compassion, and privacy, ensuring that they are treated with respect and sensitivity throughout the process. It recognizes violence as a societal problem that undermines the well-being of communities and seeks to address it comprehensively.

The establishment of the Protection Against Violence Commission and Secretariat strengthens the Act’s impact. These bodies will collaborate with various stakeholders, granting funding and providing technical assistance to bolster the nation’s response to violence. They will ensure that the Bahamas meets its international and regional obligations concerning violence, leading to a more effective and coordinated approach. The Act’s focus on prevention and awareness-raising is crucial, aiming to prevent future incidents of violence.

Minister LaRoda expressed his hope that the symposium would become a catalyst for an ongoing movement, urging participants to expand its reach to women across the archipelago. He emphasized the importance of inclusivity, suggesting the use of digital platforms to ensure that all Bahamian women, regardless of their location, have a voice and are included in the conversation. He reiterated the government’s commitment to creating a Bahamas where women’s rights are not only recognized but celebrated and protected.

The symposium, therefore, represented more than just a one-day event. It served as a powerful call to action, a testament to the strength and resilience of Bahamian women, and a commitment to building a more equitable and just society for all. The discussions, collaborations, and shared experiences fostered a sense of unity and purpose, laying the groundwork for sustained progress in advancing women’s rights and well-being in the Bahamas. The government’s active involvement and support further underscored the national importance of gender equality and the commitment to creating a future where all women can thrive.