Break the Bias

Ms.Reneva Fourie South African political analyst residing in Damascus presented her thoughts on women and gender equality to Syriatimes:

The theme for International Women’ Day (8 March) 2022 is “Break the bias”. This theme was underpinned by the following sentiments, “Imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women’s equality. Collectively we can all #BreakTheBias.”

The Diplomatic Club of Syria had its second Charity Ladies’ Brunch on Tuesday, 15 March, at the Nawafeer Restaurant, the Sheraton Hotel, Damascus, in honor of that theme. The brunch aimed to bring women from both the international community and Syria together to celebrate the power of women, particularly Syrian women.

While the world may view women as feeble and in need of protection; women in Syria challenge such stereotypes, daily.  This year, the proceeds of the brunch go to two women-managed, women-focused, organisations.

 The Libiladi Association is managed by the dynamic Mrs Ruba Mirza. It runs a range of programs across Syria. These programs include adult literacy; skills development; entrepreneurship and business management training; as well as micro-financing.

The Mother of the Nation Association managed by Mrs Lina Al Rifaee focuses on the psychological and social support of women. They recognise that  breaking the bias requires women to be self aware and self confident.

Despite their limited resources, these two organisations have found varying methods of unleashing the quiet strength of women and directing it towards impactful positive changes in their environments.

The Charity Ladies Brunch is becoming increasingly popular. The initial 120 seats had to be expanded to accommodate 180 people. The  celebratory atmosphere even breaks the bias about Syria as a country. The country is becoming increasingly stable and its citizens are highly educated, refined and very stylish and relish occasions of social interaction.

The next DCOS event will be an International Women’s Film Festival, which occurs under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture and in partnership with the Embassy of the Philippines. Follow Syriatimes for further information, which will be released soon. The event will be open to the public at absolutely no cost.

Editor In Chief

Reem Haddad