The month of March has been dubbed Women’s History Month in celebration of the contribution of women to events in history and contemporary society.

Across the globe, the movement for gender equality and women’s empowerment has been growing and has stirred discussions relating to how women are defined, and the balance that women’s contributions bring to society.

In Saint Lucia, the organization She.lc along with the Mexican Embassy and the Alliance Française, brought women from all facets of society to discuss the role of women, their experiences and how they can work toward a more inclusive society in Saint Lucia.

Kentilia Louis is the Artistic Director of She.lc, said: “Many times, we tend to have activities just to commemorate the observance, but we want to move to the next level by having in-depth discussions with people who can actually make a difference.”

Professor Marisa Belausteguigoitia, at the National Autonomous University of Mexico said the event was an opportunity to explore what is in the minds of Saint Lucian women and how they can play a greater role in society.

“A country that is not autonomous, and where women are suffering under domestic violence, harassment, and lack of jobs is a country that is not progressing,” she said. “We know the correlation between women’s rights and development, so we want to assess that precise link what women are suffering with, and what their desires are.”

International Women’s Day was held on March 8 under the theme “Balance for Better.”