Dimapur, March 7 (MExN): International Women’s Day took birth at the Second International Conference of Socialist Women which was held in Copenhagen, Denmark in 1910. At the event, a German socialist leader, Clara Zetkin, called for a designated day to recognize the struggles and contribution of women around the world, including the fight for universal suffrage. It was unanimously acknowledged by the delegates at the event and consequently, the first International Women’s Day was celebrated on March 19, 1911 in Austria. Then in 1977 the United Nations adopted a resolution inviting countries to dedicate one day to celebrate the rights of women. March 8 became International Women’s day and over the course of preceding years it evolved into an occasion to highlight the struggle of women and celebrate the gains in the fight for women’s rights.
Since then the day has emerged not only to celebrate womanhood but also to highlight women-related issues pertinent to matters of rights, participation and recognition in all spheres of life. As elsewhere in the world, Nagaland, a state assumed to be a society where women supposedly are held in higher credit, also prepares its participation on the day. This year, it comes in the backdrop of the Nagaland Cabinet ‘agreeing in principle’ the instatement of a separate state Commission for Women, entity Naga woman organizations have demanded for long. Traditionally, Naga women generally have enjoyed a better standing in comparison to their mainland counterparts but it would be sham to assume the former’s status are any better or progressed. In spite of an established noninterventionist Naga culture, and in the present times, legal foundation, unresolved and unfulfilled matters still remain between laws, the lib-movement and the reality of Naga women’s lives. Violence and poverty are some of these persistent issues.
While addressing the matters, is imperative, it should be noted a mindset identifying women’s struggle only with a particular as solely for that purpose has developed. Neichü Dz. Angami, a prominent social worker, has this to say about the sorry state of affairs, “It is unfortunate that when the need for highlighting women’s issues has become so great, such a day has been set aside. In many parts of the world, there is still a growing instance of violence and discriminations against women. So we’ve come to a point where we have to keep aside a day to discuss such issues. I hope it is not a day, when women are given the platform, but that the whole humanity recognize and acknowledge womanhood in its fullest meaning.”
Dr. Joyce also a social worker said “It is important that the government, society and community know and realize the contributions by women who are the silent bearers of abuse, and more often bear the brunt of HIV with very little support”. She also strongly desired that awareness about gender issues should be made while paramount importance be given particularly in the context of HIV/AIDS. “It has become crucial that we feminize HIV. And if they, unfortunately, happen to contract the disease, they are looked down upon. The society should therefore make it a legal right to acknowledge the dignity and quality of a woman.” Dr Joyce said.
While it is opportunity to address the conflicts of women-related concerns, International Women’s Day basically remains a symbol of hope and an event for celebration of womanhood. “It is a day of celebrating womanhood, not only for women but men too in the way that they should realize and acknowledge the strength of women” According to Hekani Jakhalu, youth mobilizer and social advocate. This essence of womanhood is also glorified by Cheryl, an upcoming Careerwoman “This day is a celebration of women’s achievements – at home and at play. An acknowledgement of her sacrifices, her gifts, her love, her life. Women are special. Man is the Head of the house, but women – the neck.”
It is indicative of not only acknowledging women as worthy beings equally deserving of every opportunity and privilege as men but acknowledging women as a source of life. In it lies what the world hinges on, Life and maintains the dynamics of intra-relational relationships as Bano Haralu, Reporter, NDTV put it “At these times, to be a woman is to have of the best of both worlds – in a man’s world and a woman’s world. There shouldn’t be anything to hold you back.”
.jpg)
