Guyana Public Service Union

Equality implies partnership not replacement. In the quest for equality many women only aspire to participate meaningfully and encouragingly in the advancement of society. If one considers a few of the many roles that our nation’s women play including mother, caregiver, homemaker, breadwinner, citizen, public servant, health care provider, educator and teacher, then it is evident that women are essential to the development of Guyana and societies globally. Worldwide and here in Guyana, the plight of women underlies larger issues of crime, injustice, domestic violence and poverty. Many fail to realize that several, if not the  majority of victims, are female who oftentimes suffer the most because of their gender aside from other barriers they face such as race, religion or political views.  

This imbalance is even more pronounced considering that women contribute more than their fair share to the functioning of the Guyanese economy, but are denied fair and equal access to the resulting benefits.  Though we recognize and celebrate the progress that many women have made in the past century towards improving their quality of life, we do so fully aware that many more barriers need to be overcome. In our own way, the Guyana Public Service Union has aspired to create an environment that naturally encourages women to see themselves as equals and feel empowered to fully play their part, but those successes would not be realized were it not for their desire to be involved. Greater change and growth can only come with increased involvement and vigilance, as such we call on all women to lead in this effort.  

Once again, on behalf of the General Council and Executive Council of the GPSU, I wish to salute all women in the Public Service and all worldwide.  

 March 6, 2010.