HELLO there, Sisters! Today, March 8, is recognised as International Women’s Day.

So, here we are, sistren (and bredrin too) looking at interesting times for women in the wider world and right here at home in Jamaica. Women have made many strides over the years, and yet it seems sometimes the more things change the more they remain the same.

These days more women are taking on higher education as well as running big and small businesses. While women are having a greater say in what happens in the country, there are still areas in which women’s voices are being hushed or silenced. Some men will point to the folk song declaring, “Woman a heavy load,” as if to say that when frustration leads to all kinds of problems you shouldn’t be surprised. Well, old-timers also share this one: “Nuh pull bungle weh a nuh fi you,” meaning don’t take on what you can’t manage.

Too often there have been women losing their lives at the hands of those who claim to love them. It’s time for that to stop. If the relationship not working to the point at which there is no hope, take advice and walk away. Don’t bother with that jealous talk that “if I can’t have you, then nobody else can”. Don’t do it!

The acts of physical violence are one scourge which everyone is against, but less attention is paid to some of the other ways that women are being treated as second-class citizens. I heard a remark made during the current debate about abortion. One of the women said she was amazed at how many male voices were being raised. She went on to say that, in her opinion, although men should have a view about what happens in regards to this issue, surely more attention should be placed on what the women have to say.

The abortion argument is a touchy one. Some people stay clear of the topic because too often hard lines are drawn on either side with no one willing to budge or even hear what the other side has to say. With that attitude the discussion won’t get very far. We will be like a car set in drive while the foot is mashing on the brake.

The other issue which came up recently is women in the political arena. The talk that has been going around for the upcoming by-election in Portland Eastern dipped into the gender debate. Despite a long history of women in Jamaican politics, this question came up: Do some people still think that women aren’t suited for politics? Well, for those who want to know, or should know, there is a long list of women who have taken on the task. Check the history books and take a look at Gordon House. Women are there and are making their mark.

Speaking of history books, I came across a small book titled Women of Distinction in Jamaica, published in 1978. Many interesting women are highlighted on the pages. There are names we are more familiar with, but how about these women listed as pioneers in community service: Dorothy Ebanks, first female bus driver in 1969; Geneve Savariau, first female air traffic controller, 1959; Carmen Parris, first female ambassador, 1975; Iris King, first female mayor, 1958. The names and stories are out there, let’s find the time to learn a little more. Big up to all the women who are holding down the fort in their own corners of the world.

100 YEARS OF PETER ABRAHAMS

On Wednesday of this week, the Caribbean School of Media and Communication (CARIMAC) held a symposium marking the 100th anniversary of the birth of Peter Abrahams — novelist, commentator, activist, who found refuge in Jamaica after fleeing apartheid in his native land of South Africa.

The voice of Peter Abrahams was known to radio listeners who would tune in to RJR to hear his special take on the issues of the day. The analysis came at a time when we were going through many changes. The political turbulence of the 70s and the changing face of Jamaica in the 80s and early 90s, as we tried to prepare ourselves for the new millennium, were ripe ground for Peter’s invaluable insight. He saw what was happening and was not afraid to speak about what troubled or impressed him.

Even after he retired from the airwaves, Peter Abrahams continued to keep his finger on the pulse of Jamaica and the world up until his untimely death. His work and impact was brought out to both those who remember him and those who may not have heard the soft, rasping voice on the airwaves.

Congratulations to CARIMAC of The University of the West Indies and RJR for keeping alive the memory and work of the late Peter Abrahams.

Barbara Gloudon is a journalist, playwright and commentator. Send comments to the Observer or gloudonb@gmail.com.