We need to be smart in achieving our goals, says Waratah

The core goal of feminism is to dismantle patriarchal structures, not to destroy cultural norms.

This was highlighted by FemLINKPacific’s Fay Volatabu during a panel discussion organised by Dialogue Fiji at Tanoa Square in Suva on Tuesday.

The discussion centred on how to break down barriers and increase women’s participation in local government elections.

Ms. Waratab responds to a question from a participant during the question-and-answer session.

Participants asked how women could break down barriers and the potential threats women might encounter if cultural norms could not be ignored.

“Young people are more adaptable to change, while the older generation has to do their best to preserve what needs to be preserved while staying relevant and moving forward,” Ms. Woratab said.

She said her past work experiences have enabled her to preserve certain cultural norms while also raising key issues that affect women.

“Of course, my father wasn’t that open-minded in our family, but if you look around you can find a male colleague, a male uncle,” she said.

“Women’s empowerment, sometimes we need to be smart about empowering ourselves to achieve our goals.”

Also on the panel were Assistant Minister of Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran, Dean of Journalism at the University of the South Pacific Dr Shailendra Singh and Munro Leys partner Jon Apted.