IOS Calicut Chapter’s Webinar on “Problems of Expression of Women’s Identity”

Calicut, October 31, 2020: The IOS Centre for Gender Studies organised a webinar today at Thiruvananthapuram under the banner   “Who am I?” The participants in the webinar discussed the Problems of Expression of Identity of Women. 

Ms. Sheena Sadiq joint convener of the programme, in her welcome speech said that the Centre was involved in the study and analysis of gender issues and the programme “Who am I” tried to provide a platform for expression of identity of women drawn from several sectors, from professionals to labourers. Their experience would help understand the problems faced by women and inspire women at large. Ms. S Bushra, who presently manages the research project of the Centre named “Transformation and Empowerment of Muslim Women”, presided over the programme. In her presidential remarks she pointed out that although there had been discussions and debates about gender issues at global level, Kerala women were not much informed about the problems of gender identity. The caste system with numberless castes and subcastes kept them from serious study of gender issues. She pressed upon the need for serious academic study of the subject.

Ms. Shahida Kamal, member of Kerala Women’s Commission, inaugurated the webinar. In her inaugural address Ms. Shahida Kamal said that the question “who am I?” had become very relevant in social and cultural discussions in the state. “Our attempt to answer this delicate question may open new avenues and opportunities for women. It will help women recognise their identity and empower them to take part in the comprehensive development of weaker sections of society”. She invited the delegates’ attention to the decline of awareness among men about gender equity and justice, which she said was not proper for a state known for intellectual advancement.

Mr. S.V. Vibu, of Kerala Police, a specialist in cybercrimes, discussed in detail the nature of cybercrimes against women and the preventive measures to be taken to stop such crimes. Ms. Beena R (gender programme manager, Kudumba Sree Project Kollam), Dr. Sreekala (writer, dancer and activist, Kollam), Ms. Anju Punnath, (artist and administrator, Norkaroots, Thiruvananthapuram) were among the panelists. There were around 100 participants and many of them reflected on the theme. Mahroofa P, a writer, proposed a vote of thanks.