In Madanryting, Shillong, 120 participants, including women peer leaders, faculty, students, outreach workers, community leaders, and health workers, gathered to celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD). North East Network (NEN) marked its first IWD observation in Shillong back in 1998, focusing on discussions around women’s participation in electoral politics. Since then, IWD has become a platform to commemorate women’s collective spirit and their resilience against gender inequalities. This year, NEN observed IWD with the theme ‘Inspire Inclusion.’
The celebrations in Meghalaya began with a warm welcome address by Gail Christie Lyngdoh, Programme Associate of NEN. The Chief Guest, Ricky Evan Lyngdoh, emphasised the crucial role of inclusion in communities, followed by a special address by Smt. Anita Nongkhlaw, highlighting the significance of IWD. The celebrations were further enhanced by cultural performances from Madan Hindi Pathshala School and H.L. Mizo Secondary School, a captivating skit by the students of St. Edmunds College, and an insightful film screening about the traditional weavers in Kynrud village.
Women grassroots leaders from West Khasi Hills and East Khasi Hills districts shared their experiences of working in the field, offering valuable perspectives on grassroots activism, during the event organised by NEN. Among them, Smt. Kyntiew Nonglang, President of Synjuk ki Seng Longkmie, Mawlangsu, West Khasi Hills district, shared her experience as a peer leader. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Riabakin Khonglah, Programme Assistant of NEN. In essence, the IWD celebration in Madanryting, Shillong, served as a platform for celebrating the resilience of women from ethnic and minority groups in the communities.
