THE Clerical & Commercial Workers’ Union (CCWU) calls to say “No” and stop violence against women. The world observed International Day of Violence against Women on November 25, 2014.

Violence against women is a big issue worldwide, and especially here in Guyana. Violence in the home leads to physical and mental health issues for all members experiencing violence. What is sad is that this violence stops women from enjoying their basic rights, to work, to help raise a family, to live a long, healthy life, free of fear.
We heard over and over again about gender equality, that women should have equal rights as men. We know some of the poor health statistics that women have, including maternal death. So what can be done to improve the lives of women so that they can enjoy the same rights that men do? Men must play a very important role in reaching gender equality for all. They should be part of the solution. Men need to have role models who teach them good leadership and problem solving skills and treat women with respect, both men and women need to work together without the use of violence.
It also serves as a day to keep women’s issues in the spotlight because, despite all of their accomplishments, women still do not enjoy the same rights as men. They are still more likely to die from HIV/AIDS, live in poverty, and to suffer from gender based violence.

SHERWOOD CLARKE
President
Clerical & Commercial Workers Union