International Women's Day celebrations kicked off here today with a parade, music, loud speaker encouragement (possibly a local DJ) that 'Women, it is our job to love and respect you'. Vehicles marked up with all the ministries of government with even the remotest impact on women - in other words all of them because impact on any part of society is impact on women, but leading the way health, housing, social security, education, ... buses from every bus route on the island (on charter) filled with supporters, many many women dressed in purple. They appeared to be on a 'round the island' expedition. More supporters turned out along the route, and some of these (older) women must keep a particular shade of purple formal suit just for such occasions, worn with smart shoes and a Sunday hat (more on Sunday hats later). Purple t-shirts also out in force. The lead vehicle sign painted with a campaign to end sexual violence against women.
Sorry I didn't think to photograph that when the whole lot gridlocked in front of our digs... didn't realize at that stage it was any more than one van followed by a mobile stage and loud music on a truck. We were just taking in another experience of colour and sound and traffic jams Caribbean style. (No idea what brought it to a standstill, nothing obvious like a head to head, or a flat tyre... maybe a chicken, or a sleeping dog... )
They take IWD seriously. AND I wouldn't mess with the Aunties in the purple suits and Sunday hats. They looked far more like forces to be reckoned with than the young policeman waving his arms and shouting trying to get the whole procession moving again.
A worthwhile subject to celebrate.. and it was good of them to put on that entertainment for you at the same time.
ReplyDeleteWish they’d do that here- it’s become lunches after lunches with ‘after dinner speakers’ no one’s heard of or they are high flying pollies pushing their own causes. All very expensive with nothing much for the ‘ordinary women in the population’
ReplyDeleteI think it’s perfect. And yes. I have aunties like that. Just back away and don’t make eye contact lol
ReplyDeleteThree cheers to the formidable purple sisters!
ReplyDeleteThe women on the island here used to celebrate women's day by kicking up their heels and dancing on tables. It's good to hear about the purple hatted matrons. Violence against women seems to be more and more in the news. Let's show em we have power
ReplyDeleteGrand turn-out for something which should have a much higher profile everywhere. 50% of the world's population should not be overlooked or subjugated as in so many parts of the world. How lovely to have a grandstand view.
ReplyDeleteyou had the best seats in town, a super great reason for a parade, and I love all the colors
ReplyDeleteI love that day. Goes to show how strong us girls are and should be.
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