International Women’s Day celebrations at Temple Trees today

The national event to mark International Women’s Day (IWD) 2013 will be held under the patronage of First Lady Shiranthi Rajapaksa at Temple Trees today.

The event is organised by the Child Development and Women’s Affairs Ministry under the theme “Protect her who protects the family” (Pawla rakina aeya surakimu). This theme has been selected for this year as gratitude for the unique service rendered by mothers who protect and safeguard the family, while dedicating their lives to uplift the family economy.

At the event, 15 women, who have been serving the country and contributing for the betterment of women and children engaging in various fields, will be felicitated by the First Lady.

In line with the national event, regionwise events will also be held at district secretariat basis. Each year around the world, International Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated on March 8. Thousands of events occur not just on this day but throughout March to mark the economic, political and social achievements of women. Organizations, governments, charities, educational institutions, women’s groups, corporations and the media celebrate the day. Many groups around the world choose different themes each year relevant to global and local gender issues.

“The Gender Agenda: Gaining Momentum” is the theme of the IWD 2013. Last year, the theme was “Connecting Girls, Inspiring Futures”. The United Nations declares a theme for International Women’s Day, and the theme for 2013 is “A promise is a promise: Time for action to end violence against women”. In 2012, it was “Empower Rural Women ” End Hunger and Poverty”. Many organizations develop International Women’s Day themes relevant to their local contexts. For instance, the Sri Lankan theme is “Protect her who protects the family”

(Courtesy: Daily News)