On Saturday, April 24, in the U.S. Virgin Islands and in over 120 countries around the globe, women of all ages will assemble to celebrate World YWCA Day. Current YWCA members, as well as prospective new members, will commemorate and reflect on the personal and leadership development of women and girls, as well as how women can contribute to the sustainable development of the communities in which they live.
The World YWCA is a global network of women leading social and economic change, advocating for peace, justice, human rights and care for the environment. It has been at the forefront of raising the status of women for more than a century. The organization develops women’s leadership so that they can find local solutions to the global inequalities women face. Each year, it reaches more than 25 million women and girls through work in over 22,000 communities.
This year’s theme is “Women Creating a Safe World.” World YWCA Day President Susan Brennan said, “In the World YWCA we believe that all women are entitled to live in safety and security. Whatever their circumstances, their status, their background, whatever their religion, their race, their culture, age, ability or sexuality, all women are entitled to live in a world free from violence a world of safety and security.
To celebrate in the Virgin Islands, the YWCA of the U.S. Virgin Islands is hosting a breakfast at the Herbert E. Lockhart Parish Hall, first floor, at St. Andrew’s Episcopal complex on 1st Avenue in Sugar Estate. From 9-11 a.m., women on St. Thomas are invited to come and share local culinary delights and sisterly camaraderie, while learning about the YWCA movement and the expansion of the organization in the territory. Additionally, a photo exhibit of Haiti depicting scenes post-earthquake will be on display.
V.I. YWCA Board President Donnalie Edwards-Cabey said, “YWCA Day is a special day observed annually by YWCA women worldwide, it is eagerly looked forward to as a time when women’s leadership and the life changing work in which YWCA’s are engaged is highlighted. Members of the U.S.V.I. YWCA are excited to once again join all the other YWCA women globally who will take place in the annual ‘Around the World Breakfast’ on April 24.”
V.I. YWCA Board President Donnalie Edwards-Cabey said, “YWCA Day is a special day observed annually by YWCA women worldwide, it is eagerly looked forward to as a time when women’s leadership and the life changing work in which YWCA’s are engaged is highlighted. Members of the U.S.V.I. YWCA are excited to once again join all the other YWCA women globally who will take place in the annual ‘Around the World Breakfast’ on April 24.”
The YWCA is requesting a breakfast donation of $12 to support its work. For more information, contact 626-9804 or 776-1592, or e-mail ywcaofthevi@yahoo.com.
