In 2022, gender equality remains a topic for discussion as many women still do not have basic human rights. Worldwide, gender discrimination remains prevalent as this form of abuse focuses on a difference or perceived difference.

Tomorrow (March 8) is the celebration of International Women’s Day. Themed “Gender Equality Today for a Sustainable Tomorrow” by the United Nations, persons are being encouraged to wear the colour purple as a sign of solidarity on the issue. 

Less than three years ago, Tobagonian Onika Mars, abuse survivor and founder of the non-profit organization ‘Women of Substance’ was a national awardee. Mars received the Medal for the Development of Women (Gold) in September 2019 for the NGOs outstanding contribution to the development of women’s rights and issues.

Her organisation helps victims of domestic violence and other abuse victims, and partners with stakeholders to raise awareness about the prevention of domestic violence. Mars, who was a guest on Tobago Updates (March 7) spoke on gender equality.

“The question is often asked, ‘Are we anywhere closer to equality?’ I would say no, because 70 percent of the world’s poor are women and we still have women who do not have access to basic sustainable resources such as education, food, healthcare services,” she said.

Mars said that though there is much work to do, she had confidence that women would obtain equality.

“God would have allowed me to turn my pain into purpose,” she said. “I decided to not wallow in pain but to help women who would have gone through what I’ve gone through, or those who are still going through. Hence why I’m in this space, empowering women.”

In addition to recognizing gender equality tomorrow, March is also Women’s History Month.