Celebration of 2019 Woman International Day in Senegal

Senegalese women would like to share with us their experiences and hopes for a total emancipation of women, especially in African countries, in the occasion of Women’s Day (8th March 2019). Refugee and immigrant women in Senegal celebrated this Day together with San Joseph Parish. The opening was a beautiful Mass for the recognition of their dignity and rights. Then, father Raphael held a conference on women’s role in the Church and society, followed by a debate.

Some of the women expressed their wish for a better future:

“I have experienced many traumatic events in my life, and I know that women’s rights must be respected. We are not objects, but rather human beings. Humanity should thank women who give birth and protect their children. Sisters, we have to unite and combine our strength in order to live happily!” Aïssatou (Central African Republic)

“In my opinion, a woman should be a leader -- responsible and combative! I chose to come to Senegal, because here there is no war. I am ready to unite my efforts with those one of my sisters so that peace may be possible in my country as well.” Halima (Ciad)

“Men tend to ignore the fact that women bring life, and that they can do many things at once. I would like to invite women to wake up, use their talents, and welcome the challenges as they find their place in our society.” Joséphine (Senegal)

“I was battered by my husband and, although the mother of 8 children, I was sent away from my home after 26 years of marriage. Nonetheless, I have never given up. I bear this witness because I want to support my sisters and tell them to hold on to God in all circumstances -- and to go on facing the challenges of their lives.” Hélène (Republic of Congo)

“I want to say no to violence and to exclusion! Let us fight to become educated and responsible women.” Solange (Central African Republic)

Sr. Josephine (Sister of the Society of Mary) shared with us what they are doing at the Welcome Point for the Refugee and Immigrant People in Senegal to help our brothers and sisters in need.

The joy was great and each of us left with a promise to seize every moment that life gives us as it is God’s gift. In this way we can reach our fully potential. Moreover, each of our refugee and immigrant sisters were given a food and cleaning kit. After a fraternal meal, we closed the day with traditional dances.

“This is the first time that a group gathered for the International Women’s Day in Samine. The idea came from the high school girls who made me one of the ‘godmothers’ of this event.

All 1500 students participated, together with their teachers, 4 of whom were women.

Gender equality is still far away, but I appreciated the meeting and I hope it will be held again.” Sr. Sophie

“For me, the 8th of March represents the victory of women who fought for their rights. The employees of our different schools in Koungheul celebrated this Day with a solemn Mass and a fraternal meal together with the pastoral team.” Abel (Associate)

“Woman is a wonder of God, and a gift of God, for humankind.” François (Associate)

Women all over the world celebrate International Women’s Day, for it represents the coming of a better society -- more humane, fair, beautiful, loving and livable. The future rests in our hands and hearts. May God accompany us and bless our efforts.

Sr. Jacqueline Compaore, Sfp

Published August 8, 2019