Message Form Load Loomba
Raj Loomba launching International Widows Day at House of Lords, London, May 2005.
Message from Lord Loomba
International Widows Day is a day is a when we remember that many millions of widows remain invisible and unheard, unable to support their themselves face degrading treatment and, often, extreme poverty. On International Widows Day, we give voice to their story to the world and spread awareness of their plight.
International Widows Day is a day is a when we remember that many millions of widows remain invisible and unheard, unable to support their themselves face degrading treatment and, often, extreme poverty. On International Widows Day, we give voice to their story to the world and spread awareness of their plight. Our aim to form a grand coalition of nations, NGO, communities and people of good will, united in their determination to bring about a culture change across all societies, faiths and communities that will put a stop to such injustices, so that widows can be respected as valued members of their communities.
Over more than two decades of the Loomba Foundation’s campaign to eradicate discrimination and injustice against widows, we have gained significant support not only from the United Nations but also form governments including those of India. the United Kingdom, the United States, Rwanda, Gabon, Kenya and many more, and this has played an important part in raising global awareness.
Its is right to celebrate progress. But we must never forget the millions who remain in urgent need, with no prospect of relief, whose hopes depend on the success of our mission.
To those widows I say :
We are here for you. We will never give up. We lead a growing army of people and organizations who care about you dependents. Between us we hope to reach and help as many of you as possible. In time, our aim is to change entrenched attitudes, to enlighten the minds and soften the hearts of those who would visit injustice upon you.
To governments I say :
Discrimination against widows blights your communities and harms the life chances of daughters. you can help. Ensure that victims of oppression have a voice in the corridors of power. Make sure the human rights you have endorsed in international agreements are enshrined in domestic legislation. Work to provide individuals whose right are infringed with meaningful recourse to low. Support programmes to educate and raise awareness. Facilitate collaboration between authorities, communities and support organisations.
Finally I say this to our supporters and all those who would
join us to right this wrong :
We’ve barely started yet. Your contribution is important. If we stay the course, eventually, together we will succeed.
Raj Loomba : Founder and Chairman Trustee of The Loomba Foundation