Parents should not have gender discrimination: Vijayalakshmi Shetty

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangalore, Nov 23: “Raise your children without any gender discrimination,” advised Vijayalakshmi B Shetty, the president of the Federation of Women’s Organizations, Mangalore Taluk, after inaugurating the Convention of Women’s Self-help Groups (SHGs) organized by Spandana Trust and Munnade Women’s Association in the premises of Infant Mary’s School, Jeppu.

Addressing a large gathering of students and parents, Ms Shetty said that parents should be free of gender bias and should raise their male and female children without any discrimination. Boys and girls are equal in talents and abilities, she said. She advised parents to encourage their children equally because girls are not inferior to boys. In fact, girls are also talented and can rise and shine in society  if they are encouraged.

 

 

She also said that SHGs can empower women to be self-sufficient and independent. The groups should encourage women to progress socially and financially. Harassment and ill-treatment of women at the work place is discouraging, she said. Women must be bold enough to speak against unjust, cruel and criminal acts against them.

A procession of the members of self-help groups was organized from Kankanady Circle to Infant Mary’s School, Jeppu. Shakunthala, assistant director of Women and Children Development Department DK, headed the procession.

Sr Irene Jane D’Souza, the divisional superior of Sisters of Charity, Mangalore, presided over the function. M P Noronha, the advocate and Shahnaz M, editor of Anupama, a women’s monthly magazine, were the chief guests of the occasion.

Sr Mary Yemma Joseph, the head of Infant Mary’s Convent, and Jacintha Alfred,  city corporator occupied the seats of honor on the dais.