The Tribune

By JEFFARAH GIBSON

Tribune Features Writer

jgibson@tribunemedia.net

Although great strides have been made in the Bahamas in regards to women’s rights, there is still a long way to go. And it is important not to become complacent, as many more barriers must be overcome to achieve true equality between the sexes.

To promote this message, the Zonta Club of Nassau is hosting several special events in the wake of International Women’s Day.

The first is a cinematic mix and mingle that will include the screening of the movie “On the Basis of Sex”, which champions equality among men and women.

The event is sponsored by Cable Bahamas/Rev and Fusion Superplex and will take place at the new cinema on Thursday, March 21 at 5.30pm.

“On the Basis of Sex” tells the story of US Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg (played by Felicity Jones), who along with her husband Martin Ginsburg, takes on a landmark case of discrimination on the basis of sex that becomes a precedent for other sex discrimination cases.

“The case in this movie was actually a case of discrimination against a man, but Ruth Bader Ginsburg realised that this case would have future implications for women as well,” said Lady Camille Barnett of Zonta.

“She also realised that women’s rights had to be gained and protected via the legal process. What is compelling is to watch a young wife, mother and aspiring lawyer face and overcome obstacles and discrimination while developing into a skilled attorney and advocate for women’s rights. And she does this while supporting her husband and taking care of her family.”

Lady Barnett said she believes this film is a great pick because of its message and the fact that many Bahamian women will be able to identify with its themes.

“In keeping with our mission, we wanted to do a fundraiser that would not only assist women in crisis, but one that could also help foster a healthy discussion about a woman’s place in Bahamian society. While the Bahamas has made tremendous strides in the area of women’s rights, there are still barriers to overcome. This film is an excellent fit for what we hope to achieve because it is inspired by the true story of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the second female Justice of the US Supreme Court, someone whose life work has been about the advancement of women’s rights and status,” said Lady Barnett.

“I think many Bahamian women can identify with that and perhaps this film will inspire other young women to keep pressing on and succeed despite the obstacles. Also perhaps, it will sensitise men to issues of gender equality and give them a new perspective.”

Suggested donations for the event are $40 per person, with proceeds going towards producing 1,000 care kits for women to donate to the Crisis Centre and Salvation Army and, funds permitting, to sponsor a short film on violence against women to be viewed in schools, on TV or as a filler in theatres.

“The Crisis Centre and the Salvation Army...both of these organisations support women in times of crisis, especially in cases of domestic violence. When women flee from bad situations, often it’s done in a hurry and they can’t bring extra clothes and supplies with them, so these care kits are intended to help make them a bit more comfortable in their time of distress. They include items like a toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant and wipes, et cetera, that could come in handy at such times,” said Lady Barnett.

Also part of the event is an art exhibition titled “Women & Art: Balance for Better, curated by Katrina Cartwright, the education and outreach manager at the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas.

“I think the main takeaway is that women have had to fight for their rights for a long time. We must not be complacent about what we’ve gained and we must continue to fight for our rights until we have overcome every barrier and obstacle to true gender equality. Also, it’s important for women (and men) to never give up on their dreams, but must be steadfast and overcome all obstacles to their aspirations. The Bahamas indeed the world will be a better place when women and men have equal opportunity, that is, better balance...better world,” said Lady Barnett.