Monrovia – In a stirring name for nationwide unity and social concord, the Neighborhood Well being Initiative (CHI) on Thursday, July 10, hosted a one-day Cultural and Artwork Pageant underneath the theme “Range and Inclusion.” The occasion, held at Monrovia Metropolis Corridor, drew a cross-section of Liberians from numerous sectors and backgrounds and obtained robust endorsements from feminine lawmakers and worldwide companions.
By Emmanuel Weedee-Conway
Delivering the keynote tackle, CHI Government Director Madam Naomi Solanke emphasised the significance of embracing range and fostering inclusion throughout all spheres of society—from communities to the office.
“Range means having many alternative varieties of individuals in a gaggle. Every individual brings their very own distinctive experiences and concepts, and that makes our communities, workplaces, and society richer and stronger,” stated Madam Solanke.
She burdened that whereas range brings worth, its full potential is just realized when paired with intentional inclusion and intersectionality—making certain each particular person feels heard, revered, and valued.
“After we speak about inclusion, we imply creating areas the place everybody feels welcomed, the place all voices are heard, and the place everybody has an opportunity to contribute,” she defined.
Citing analysis, Madam Solanke famous that various and inclusive environments foster better innovation, clear up issues extra successfully, and strengthen teamwork. But, she acknowledged the persistent challenges of discrimination and exclusion confronted by many, calling for collective motion.
“It’s our obligation to talk out in opposition to injustice, to pay attention to one another, and to create a society that respects all views. Let’s be the change we wish to see,” she urged.
Lawmakers Pledge Assist for Inclusion
The occasion obtained overwhelming assist from members of the Legislature, significantly the Feminine Legislative Caucus. Representatives Ellen Attoh-Wreh (Chairperson), Pricilla A. Cooper (Vice Chair), and Moima Briggs-Mensah pledged their full backing for the initiative, stressing the necessity for nationwide unity no matter ethnicity, faith, gender, or political affiliation.
“For us within the Feminine Legislative Caucus, we assist something that promotes inclusion and unity. You can not speak about unity with out inclusion,” stated Rep. Attoh-Wreh of Margibi County.
Rep. Briggs-Mensah of Bong County District #6 echoed the sentiment, stressing the significance of gender and incapacity inclusion.
“We’re advocating to make sure seats are reserved for girls and individuals with disabilities—significantly ladies with disabilities. Our state of affairs ought to by no means outline our capability,” she acknowledged.
Rep. Cooper added: “Girls’s participation begins with us. We should empower ourselves and get up for one another. We should present via motion—not simply phrases—that we’re dedicated to inclusion.”
Diplomatic Assist for Inclusion
Additionally talking on the occasion, Madam Emer Hughes, Growth Lead on the Embassy of Eire in Monrovia, reaffirmed her nation’s assist for efforts selling range, fairness, and social cohesion.
“We’re stronger collectively, no matter our backgrounds. True progress is just doable once we work collectively throughout strains of distinction,” she acknowledged.
Madam Hughes emphasised that various groups are extra revolutionary, resilient, and higher positioned to handle complicated challenges. She known as on establishments and communities to actively combat discrimination and create welcoming environments for all.
“To construct a society grounded in love and belonging, we should rejoice our variations and shield the rights of each particular person,” she stated. “Let’s construct a future the place everybody feels they belong and are really valued.”
Name to Motion from Civil Society
Former Government Director of the Nationwide Fee on Disabilities (NCD), Daintowon Domah Pay-Bayee, praised CHI for organizing what she described as a “highly effective step towards nationwide therapeutic.”
“We’d like this type of unity if our nation is to maneuver ahead,” stated Madam Pay-Bayee. “There’s no energy in division. We should eliminate the ‘pull-her-down’ mentality and be intentional about embracing range.”
She inspired younger individuals to keep up their vitality and morale, urging them to play a number one function in selling human rights and inclusive growth.
