The Secretary of State for the Promotion of Equality (SoSPI) celebrated National Women’s Day, on November 3, in the building of the Secretariat of State for Youth and Sports (SoSYS), under the theme “Enhancing Women’s Participation in National Development Policies”.

Secretary of State for the Promotion and Equality, Idelta Rodrigues stressed that the choice of November 3, as National Women’s Day, is based on the murder of Maria Tapo, who died thirty-five years ago on the border,fighting for independence. She also noted that this year homage will be paid to her contribution as well as to Rosa Muki, Maria Gorrete, Isabel Barreto and other women massacred in Kráras.

“The celebration itself takes place in 13 districts in order to draw attention to the role of women in this Country since they have had their contribution in the struggle for independence, in an environment of peace and harmony”, highlighted Idelta Rodrigues.

The Secretary of State also stressed that “the advancement of women is not limited to domestic services and that, as the presidential and legislative elections of 2012 are approaching, we want to note the importance of women and their involvement in political life, opening horizons for women’s participation in decision-making concerning the life and development of their Country in general”.

“Women are endowed with a single and particularly important thought, with critical perspectives and knowledge in relation to strategic developments, policies and rules that the government had mapped out for our country’s priorities in the future “, stated the Secretary of State.

“I ask you all for your attention regarding women who continue to fight for justice, equality and progress of our country. I also ask men to lend their support to us, women, encouraging us, strengthening us in equality. Together we will work for the progress that we have long been expecting. We will give strength to the motto “Together we can, with strenght, I can, you can and if we work together, we always can” Idelta Rodrigues reinforced.

The Special Representative of Secretary-General of the United Nations in Timor-Leste, Ameraah Haq sought to highlight the good example that the Timorese Women has given worldwide, at the Popular Consultation, and reiterate the important role of women in political situations and other very important areas as are the upcoming elections.

Awards were given to the media and certificates to former Gender Focal Points, and there were also prizes for the winners of indoor soccer and flower deposition at the Lecidere beach in Díli.