On behalf of the Government and the Ministry of Gender Affairs, I would like to wish all of the Women in the Cayman Islands a happy International Women’s Day. In line with this year’s theme, “Inspire Inclusion”, the Family Resource Centre has announced many exciting events for men, women, and children to celebrate the 25th year of Honouring Women Month. I am sure that many residents will attend and I look forward to celebrating this important month with you. 

Today, I would like to reflect on the progress and empowerment of Cayman women and acknowledge the strength, resilience, and boundless potential of women not only in our beloved Islands but also across the globe. May this day and month be dedicated to reaffirming our commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable society, where every woman is empowered to thrive and succeed.

Throughout our history, women have played pivotal roles as our nation-builders. They were instrumental in establishing our first permanent churches and schools, nurturing and defending our youth during challenging times. In moments of crisis, they bravely held families together and rebuilt communities after devastating storms. While many of our men were engaged in seafaring trade, it was the strength and determination of our women that sustained the Caymanian way of life. Some courageous women also ventured to sea or served as administrators in that industry, a tradition that continues today.

Women worked on farms, tended livestock, and practised folk or “bush” medicine. In the absence of permanent medical facilities on the Island, women practised midwifery and nursing, passing their knowledge through generations. Women wove silver thatch rope, providing crucial economic support to families across the Islands. When the demand for rope declined, they utilized their weaving and plaiting skills to craft bags, hats, and other accessories. This same innovative spirit propels our current economy, and the current generation’s thirst for knowledge ensures the resilience of our heritage. Serving as the backbone of our economy, women, both past and present, manage households, operate small and large businesses, and lead communities with grace and determination.

It’s remarkable to see the advancement of women in our country where women started as wives to seafarers and now we have female doctors, airline pilots, fire officers, police officers and even farmers. There have been numerous, remarkable Caymanian women who have shaped the Cayman Islands, enriched the lives of many and propelled our society forward.

Yet, despite our achievements, we must address the systemic gender biases that are still prevalent in our Islands and strive for equal opportunities and inclusion for all. The United Nations warns that at the current rate, achieving gender equality in the highest positions of power will take another 130 years. Gender equality remains a pressing issue throughout the Caribbean region and globally. Women continue to encounter barriers to full participation in various aspects of society. Despite advancements in education and workforce participation, significant gender disparities persist in areas such as political representation, economic empowerment, and resource accessibility. Cultural norms and stereotypes often reinforce traditional gender roles, limiting women’s opportunities for advancement.

The Cayman Islands Government actively raises awareness about the importance of gender equity. The Gender Affairs Unit promotes understanding and compliance with the Gender Equality Act, the National Policy on Gender Equity and Equality (NPGEE), and the Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). Additionally, it facilitates Gender Equality Tribunal hearings per the Gender Equality Act. While significant progress has been made, we must acknowledge that there is still work to be done in our region to promote inclusivity and equality. To this end, the long-awaited Anti-Sexual Harassment Bill will be considered by Cabinet within this month. This Bill seeks to provide protection for workers, clients and customers in a variety of businesses, organizations, and institutions.

Let this month serve as a call to action for us to continue striving for progress within our society. By remembering the strength, innovation, and courage of the women who helped build our nation and letting their example guide us, we can achieve a brighter, more inclusive future where every woman has the opportunity to thrive and succeed. 

Again, happy International Women’s Day to all the incredible women who continue to inspire us every day. I eagerly anticipate the various events Honouring Women Month has to offer.