By Mireille Jaillet
We dream of a world where differences are valued and celebrated
Not because of gender, or race, or class, or challenges
But for our uniqueness, integrity, and qualities contributed
Where people can thrive and meet their full potentials.
On March 8th, International Women’s Day is over a century old.
Still too many things we can’t do, stigmas weighing us down
A mountain of barriers, challenges and stories to be told.
And as the fight continues, one by one we become unbound.
We see freedoms taken away in the world’s most “democratic” countries.
Women slain, and children orphaned because of outdated beliefs and values.
Or forced on their knees pleading: Remember Please!
That this day is not only for us but for all those who celebrate women and their virtues.
We are speaking of our mothers, sisters, aunts and daughters
Our aunts, teachers, friends and mentors,
We speak of all those women who truly matters.
Together we can tear the barriers down, and finally enjoy this word’s splendours.
Mireille Jaillet is the UNE’s National Equity Representative for Women