The first of six signs calling attention to the need to resist violence against women was erected near the road, and in full view of the public, just west of the gazebo on the grounds of the Scouts and Guides Ruthwill Auditorium on Monday, March 8. Its erection climaxed a rally and luncheon in observance of International Women’s Day held at the Soroptimist Club Hall by the Soroptimists and the National Council of Women.

The unveiled Women Rights sign

The sign was unveiled by the newly-appointed Speaker of the Anguilla House of Assembly, the Hon. Barbara Webster-Bourne. She was one of the persons who spoke at the rally and, being the first Anguillian woman in that position, was highly commended for attaining that honour.

The sign read: “A Life free of violence is our right. Together we can end violence against women. Let’s stop violence against women.”

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs including Gender Affairs and Human Rights, Foster Rogers, said the unveiling of the plaque was just a small token to remind the public of the importance that women play in the society. “As far back as we can remember, when our fathers travelled in search of employment all over the globe, the women stayed behind in Anguilla and held the families together, and helped produce what we have today as young men and young women,” he stated. “The contribution women have made to our society is one that is undeniable and one we can never forget."

Mr. Rogers was of the opinion that while equal opportunity and equal rights were not what they should be, Anguillian women were more fortunate than others in many countries around the world in terms of access to health care, jobs and other opportunities. Speaking on behalf of the Minister, Mr. Walcott Richardson, he congratulated women in Anguilla for the sterling work they had done over past generations and applauded the National Council of Women for its recognition of the contribution that women had made to the community.

He added: “The election of Mrs. Barbara Webster-Bourne, by the House of Assembly, as Speaker is a significant stride in equal rights for women in Anguilla, and I must say congratulations to her. I know you will do a good job and I wish you all the best.”

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