JUNE 24, 2011 | MORE NEWS
Bangladesh Nari Progati Sangha (BNPS) marked its 25thanniversary on June 24, 2011. Since its inception as a women’s rights organization in 1986, BNPS has been continuing its journey to achieve equal rights for women and has become a forerunner in the women’s movement in Bangladesh.
‘Celebrating 25th Years of Struggle for Women’s Empowerment and Equality’, the silver jubilee celebration of BNPS, was organized at the Chayanat-Sanskriti Bhaban Auditorium in Dhaka on 28th June. Dr. Shirin Sharmin Chowdhury, Honorable State Minister for Women and Children Affairs, graced the event as the Chief Guest. In her speech the Honorable State Minister said, despite many bold steps taken by the government to prevent violence against women, incidences of violence are continuing. Victims of violence have to take legal actions against their perpetrators. Families and society have to come forward to assist the victims.
Academician Dr. Salahuddin M. Aminuzzaman, Educationist Dr.Ajoy Roy, Rahman Jawshon Ara, Coordinator, PLAZE2; Dr.Sarwar Ali, Trustee Member of Leberation War Meseum; Renowned women journalist Sitara Musa, Mazeda Sawkat Ali, women Activist; Advocate Mamtaj Begum, Chairperson of Jatio Mahila Sangstha; Principal Quzi Faruque Ahmed delivered expressed their solidarity with BNPS.
Women’s empowerment process in Bangladesh has achieved some progress, however, the women movement has to continue its struggle further to achieve real empowerment for the women, said the speakers in their speech. The event was attended by eminent civil society members and women leaders who have been involved with BNPS for the last 25 years. This event was moderated by Afroza Banu, cultural activist and vice president of BNPS executive committee.
Executive director Rokeya kabir said that, empowerment of the poor women at the grassroots needs to be emphasized. Leadership of the grassroots women only can lead the country. Shyamoli Nasrin Chowdhury, President of BNPS executive committee, presided over the anniversary event.
The event became a solidarity gathering of former and present staff of BNPS, civil society, women, human rights and cultural organizations. A specially made documentary video on BNPS was shown at the beginning of the program.
On this occasion BNPS contributed to Liberation War Museum’s building construction fund by squeezing the 26th anniversary program length and other expenses. Sara Zaker and Dr. Sarwar Ali, of Liberation War Museum received the check on behalf of the museum. This event was concluded by a cultural program.
