As 2012 marks the 50th anniversary of the Women's Suffrage Movement in The Bahamas, The College of The Bahamas in conjunction with the Bureau of Women's Affairs, Ministry of Labour and Social Development will co-host a special symposium, March 6th-9th, 2012 under the theme "Commemorating the Past, Reflecting on the Present, Envisioning the Future: 1962 and Beyond." The symposium will include five panel sessions: one student day session on Tuesday, March 6th, three evening sessions on Tuesday March 6th, Wednesday, March 7th and Thursday, March 8th and an all day event on Friday, March 9th from 9:00am-4:00pm. All sessions will be held at The College's Performing Arts Centre and are free and open to the general public.
In advance of the symposium, high school and college students throughout The Bahamas have been invited to express their own ideas about the meaning of the Women's Suffrage Movement through prose, poetry and poster competitions. Other planned activities include: a dramatization of the Suffrage Movement, (directed by noted playwright Marion Bethel); short five minute reflections given by individuals who were personally connected with the Movement and a plenary speaker who will discuss "The Legacy of the Women's Suffrage Movement."
This event will, undoubtedly, provide a significant educational experience; one that will not only engage students directly, but will engender a deeper awareness of the significance of this event in Bahamian history. Indeed, this four-day symposium will highlight the importance of the Women's Suffrage Movement by reflecting on past achievements, present concerns, and envisioning a brighter, more equitable Bahamian society in the future.
Click here for:
Symposium agenda
Bios on Symposium presenters
Invitation to the Opening Ceremony
Poetry, poster & essay competition guidelines
