Remarks as prepared
Ambassador Sarah-Ann Lynch
International Women’s Day March
March 6, 2022
Her Excellency Ayra Ali, First Lady of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana
Honorable Ministers of Government,
Her Excellency Jane Miller, British High Commissioner
Members of the Diplomatic Corps
Distinguished Ladies,
Gentlemen,
Members of the media.
Good morning! It’s wonderful to be in the company of so many phenomenal women as we march to forge a path for women’s equality and “Break The Bias!”
International Women’s Day is an opportune time to celebrate the achievements, contributions, and progress of women and girls in the United States, Guyana and around the globe. We honor the generations of trailblazing women and girls who have helped to build our nations and shaped our progress.
While we celebrate the accomplishments of women in society, we must also bring attention to some of the barriers that continue to limit our advancement. More recently, I have had the opportunity to meet with women working in the energy sector. Because of their gender, some mentioned they were presumed to be a notetaker rather than industry expert or decision maker. Today, it is important for all to take note that both in the United States, here in Guyana, and around the world, women are policy makers, scientists, engineers, economists, civil rights advocates, entrepreneurs, ambassadors, Heads of State and more.
Women need to be at the decision-making table, contributing to the development and implementation of laws and policies that affect our lives and the lives of our families. The experiences and perspectives that women bring are different and equally important to those of men, and our countries deserve to benefit from the leadership of women and the innovative spark women add to prosperity.
This year’s theme for International Women’s Day is “Break The Bias.” How can we break the bias? We can start by reversing stereotypes with what are perceived as male and female roles. We need to act now to close the leadership gap and have our next generation of leaders be more inclusive and diversified.
To the men present here today, thank you for your support. We welcome your support in elevating women’s access to employment, appropriate working conditions, access to economic resources and full participation in decision-making.
The United States is committed to increasing women’s empowerment through investment, financing, and support to improve the lives of people around the world. Through the U.S. Embassy here in Georgetown, we have programs to help women realize their full potential and achieve social, economic, and political empowerment. Empowering women isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s the smart thing to do. When women succeed, nations are more safe, more secure, and more prosperous.
Throughout my travels and engagement across the ten regions of Guyana, I have had the distinct pleasure of meeting women from all walks of life who have displayed strength, determination, and commitment to their families, communities, and country. Thank you for all you do in charting a course for a prosperous Guyana for all.
Happy International Women’s Day in advance!
