Ref: 09/2007

Date: 07 March  2007

On the Occasion of the International Women’s Day

PCHR Organizes a Reception in Khan Yunis to Honor Palestinian Women

On Monday, 7 March 2007, PCHR organized a reception in its branch in Khan Yunis on the occasion of the International Women’s Day on 8 March. A large number of women’s organizations representatives, activists, and civil society figures from the southern Gaza Strip attended.

Majeda Shehada (Women’s Uni researcher) opened the reception by talking about the International Women’s Day and its symbolism for women around the world. She stressed that this day serves the aim of affirming the importance of women’s enjoyment of all their rights in accordance with international standards and conventions. She added that the receptions organization stems from PCHR’s firm belief and commitment to women, and to honor women’s organizations in the southern Gaza Strip.

Jaber Weshah (PCHR’s Deputy Director) gave a historic background on the International Women’s Day. He also talked about the pioneering role of Palestinian women who have shared the struggle and suffering of living under occupation. Weshah also pointed to PCHR’s position in support of women’s rights throughout the year; and he called upon all organizations to increase their support for Palestinian women.

Afaf El-Edriesi (Director of the Palestinian Women’s Union of Labor) talked about the importance of the role of women in society as mothers, sisters, and wives, and as the key nucleus of the family. She also talked about the development of the role of women in Palestinian and Arab societies. She stressed the importance of men’s support for women’s rights in order to achieve these rights.

Suad Hijjo (Representative of the Women’s Liaison Committee in the southern Gaza Strip) pointed to the integration of women in society, and their struggle against the same obstacles that men face under occupation. She called upon the attendance to participate in the meeting organized by the Women’s Liaison Committee and PCHR on 12 March in Gaza City to support the mothers and wives of prisoners.

It is noted that PCHR presented each woman who attended the reception with a flower to honor them and commemorate their role in society.