'Editorial': Let Us Stand Up for Our Women Everyday

Renowned American poet, storyteller, activist, and autobiographer, the late Maya Angelou once said: ‘Each time a woman stands up for herself she stands up for all women’.

Assistant Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, embodies this sentiment in Fiji. While leading the Westpac International Women’s Day Family Walk, she emphasised the importance of supporting the welfare of Fijian women.

Women are the backbone of society, yet they often do not receive the love and respect they deserve. International Women’s Day, to be celebrated on March 8, serves as a reminder to cherish and empower the women in our lives.

Ms Kiran urges us to address issues such as postpartum depression and emotional stress faced by women.

Postpartum depression is a common yet stigmatised condition that affects many women after childbirth. By acknowledging and supporting women’s mental health, we can help them realise their full potential.

Assistant Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran (left) and Westpac staff family members, participated in the walk around the Lautoka City at Lautoka City on March 3, 2024..

Let us invest in women, accelerate progress, and create a society where women are loved, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.

It is our collective responsibility to ensure that our women feel valued, cherished, and respected. By doing so, we not only improve the lives of individual women but also contribute to the overall prosperity and well-being of our nation.

Let us take a stand for our women this week and beyond. Love, support, and empower the women in your life everyday, not only for one day.

Give them love and they will show their full potential as Canadian poet Rupi Kaur said: “What’s the greatest lesson a woman should learn? That since day one, she’s already had everything she needs within herself. It’s the world that convinced her she did not.”

Feedback: maikeli.vesikula@fijisun.com.fj