As an only child, Luxmi Nautiyal grew up in a protective environment, never venturing out to explore her environment alone. But once she joined IndiaUnheard, Luxmi surprised herself as well as her community by integrating so fully that she is now, as a Community Correspondent, a pioneering spirit bent on addressing environmental, educational, and children’s rights issues.
In Gairsen, Uttarakhand, women gather and share their views and experiences on Women’s Day.
Luxmi has been attending International Women’s Day celebration in Gairsen, Uttarakhand for 5 years now. The courageous and assertive women who used to give talks during the event have always impressed her. This year was special for her because she now feels empowered too, as a community journalist. After having been inspired by the numerous women activists she met and listened to, she can in turn be a role model.
The celebrations were organized by an NGO working to bring about gender equality, called Shri Bhubaneshwari Mahila Ashram, and funded by a donation made by the local M.L.A. Events of this type are of particular significance in Uttarakhand, where gender discrimination and cases of domestic violence are high. This year, around 500 women came together, to talk about their empowering experiences, but also to sing and dance, in a very festive mood.
Throughout the day, women came to be informed about diverse topics related to gender, and listen to speeches given by empowered women. This festivity was also the occasion to momentarily escape from domestic chores, and to enjoy the company of other women, in a joyful and friendly atmosphere.
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