The Tribune

UNDER the theme ‘Press for Progress’, a week-long series of events marking Women’s Week and International Women’s Day will culminate in a march on Saturday.

March organisers Equality Bahamas said this year’s events focused on bodily autonomy and creating a culture of consent.

The public is invited to Eastern Parade at 9am to join the Press for Progress march to The Dundas grounds on Mackey Street where a Tiny Talk Speaker Series and Expo for Women and Girls will immediately follow.

Speakers include STRAW Inc’s Therene Cunningham, Donna Nicolls of MEmancipation, University of The Bahamas’ Tingum Collective poets, and multidisciplinary artist Jodi Minnis.

EB Director Alicia Wallace said: “We’re excited about the workshop and activity options we have planned for the day, and creating a resource village for women and girls.

“We have more than a dozen organisations and practitioners offering free sessions in their areas of expertise. Women and girls at the expo will be able to take a yoga class, practice self-defence, learn how to grow their own food, and access helpful tools for their mental health.”

Lifestyle coach Melissa Major will be at the expo to engage women and girls in conversations about health coaching and the path to better living. She is also facilitating a workshop at 11am.

“I’m looking forward to presenting on the benefits of clean eating for long term health and also this is a great opportunity to empower women on how to be their own health advocate,” Mrs Major said.

The speaker series, expo, and workshops will run until 3pm.

Entry and participation is free, and food and drinks will be available for purchase throughout the day, Ms Wallace said.

Francine Russell of Afromation and The Heritage Partners said, “When I heard about the event, I knew I had to add my voice. I think it is important for us to have community events that allow women to realise their value and to reach their real potential, and have fun at the same time.”