The Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association (GRPA) says that while it recognises the strides women in Guyana and across the globe have made regarding gender empowerment and equality, it is also important to reflect critically on the barriers that continue to impede further progress.
In a press release to mark International Women’s Day, the association said barriers against Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (which are essential to the health and wellbeing of women, men and a productive society) persist.
“Women and girls need to be empowered to exercise control over their sexual and reproductive lives if Guyana is to advance in attaining its goals of sustainable, equitable development,” the association said.
While acknowledging that Guyana has come a long way in the struggle for gender equality, particularly in relation to legislation, access to education and parliamentary representation and others; “the impact of these achievements on the lives of women, the community and the nation as a whole is still lacking.” The prevailing scourge of gender-based violence, teenage pregnancy, poverty, HIV/AIDS, maternal mortality and morbidity, and a whole range of societal issues are affected by gender inequality, the group asserted.
“Patriarchal power is still pervasive in every unit of our society – from Parliament to the home; from temples, churches and mosques to the street corners, perpetuating sexism, racism, homophobia, xenophobia, and other related forms of intolerance. Women also imbibe and use patriarchal power, exerting control, based on their status, class, race, political affiliation and religion,” the GRPA said.
It is important that women seek to transform their mindsets as those who are “co-opted by patriarchy and estranged from the realities of the burdens borne by our sisters, especially those in vulnerable situations. Only then can we inspire the much needed change in Guyana,” according to the group.
At the same time, the group recognises the efforts of women in Guyana who have inspired change for betterment of women and the advancement of the Guyanese society. “The organisation is a product of this work, having been established in 1973 through the work of the Guyana Women’s League of Social Services by Olga Byrne, it’s first Executive Director.” The association has since grown in strength and scope: it is a Member Association of the International Planned Parenthood Federation and is now a leading provider of sexual and reproductive health in Guyana, combining medical services with counselling, education and advocacy.
