WOMEN’S DAY PARADE IN CAMEROON- WHY DID THE ISRAELI
EMBASSY WORE THE YELLOW RIBBON?
International Women's Day, which celebrates
the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women, was marked
across the globe with pertinent events, conferences, festivals, and performances.
In Yaounde, the day was marked in a
special parade with thousands of participants wearing unique fabric designed
for the day, and in the presence of the first lady of Cameroon Mrs. Chantal
Biya.
Israel has traditionally participated
in the parade. However, in Israel, this
year International Women's Day was commemorated but not celebrated. This is
why the Israeli team wore a yellow ribbon. The oversized yellow ribbon is a
symbol to remind us of the message “Bring Them Home.” It is a sign of support
for the hostages still being held in captivity by Hamas since the terrorist
organization attacked Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. 134
Israeli hostages are currently being held captive by Hamas, including women and
children.
The events of October 7th raised
many questions about the status of women, the relationship between women's
issues and political agendas, and most significantly, about global solidarity
for female victims.
On that terrible day, thousands of terrorists invaded more
than 30 communities in southern Israel. Hamas had trained them to murder, torture,
and kidnap Israelis, and to target women and girls in particular for rape and sexual
mutilation.
Yet astonishingly, across the globe
too many relevant parties - including international organizations, supposed
human rights groups, academic institutions, and women's groups founded to be a
voice for victims of sexual assault - refused to stand up for the Israeli victims.
In light of these abuses of Israeli
women, this year we did not planning to mark International Women's Day as a
festive event. Unlike previous years, Israel's many achievements on the road to
gender equality will not be celebrated, and the challenges ahead will not be
discussed.
Instead, as has happened every day
since the October 7th massacre, on March 8th our thoughts
were with our sisters being held captive in Gaza, subjected by the depraved
terrorists of Hamas to the most horrible conditions imaginable.
Our hearts are heavy as young women
and mothers are still being held by Hamas. The world must join us as we shout
their cry and demand their liberation. It is the responsibility of us all to help
bring these women home.
Mrs. Noga Lewenstein
Chargée d’Affairs ai