The Iraq Space Center (IQSC) recently celebrated the graduation of approximately 240 women from the Her Voice project in Halabja Governorate. The project serves as a guiding light in tackling problem of gender-based discrimination in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, with a specific emphasis on Halabja. Funded by the U.S. Consulate General in the Kurdistan Region and organized by the IQSC, this initiative aims to empower women by addressing obstacles such as restricted job access, workplace gender biases, and societal norms that hinder women’s involvement in different areas of life.
Expanding on the achievements of Her Voice, the project team presented several important suggestions to guarantee ongoing advancement. It is essential to provide participants with a wide range of perspectives and expertise in order to enhance their opportunities in the labor market. It is also crucial to support advocacy work that aims to enforce laws and policies, ensure the protection of women’s rights, and hold those responsible for gender-based violence accountable.
Advocating for systemic change and accountability will help establish a safer and fairer environment for women in Halabja and the Kurdistan Region. Ongoing endeavors to increase awareness, enhance skills, and advocate for societal transformation will contribute to the establishment of a community that firmly opposes gender-based violence and treats every individual with the utmost respect and dignity.
After a journey of six months of exercises and hard work, the Her Voice project reached its pinnacle with a momentous graduation ceremony. Women participants enthusiastically shared their experiences and aspirations with a diverse audience, which included local officials, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and a representative from the U.S. Consulate General in the Kurdistan Region. This event offered a wealth of valuable insights into the experiences of the community, shedding light on important issues like gender equality, empowerment, and opportunities for advancement.
“I was delighted to witness the remarkable progress and transformation of these women, alongside local officials and representatives from NGOs,” commented a project organizer.
Dedication to gender equality
The stories of these individuals conquering obstacles and reaching their aspirations are undeniably motivating. The presence of local officials and NGOs highlighted the collective effort to uplift and empower women in the region, while the involvement of a representative from the U.S. Consulate General emphasized the significance of global support for these initiatives. The local authorities were pleased with the initiative and encouraged its continuation in the near future. They also expressed their appreciation for the support of the U.S. Consulate General, acknowledging its crucial contribution to the project’s achievements.
The graduation ceremony was more than a simple celebration. It provided a space for women to openly discuss their experiences, dreams, and obstacles, encouraging conversation and teamwork among individuals dedicated to advancing gender equality and empowering other women.
The story of Her Voice in Halabja exemplifies the impact of community-driven initiatives on fostering social transformation. Through the empowerment of women and the questioning of discriminatory norms, the project has brought about positive changes in the lives of individuals and has also contributed to the creation of a society that is more inclusive and fair.
Her Voice is actively working toward creating a society that rejects gender-based violence and promotes respect and dignity for everyone. By raising awareness, fostering skill development, and advocating for change, the project’s participants and organizers are making a significant impact. The ongoing journey involves individuals, groups, and supporters collaborating to foster a well-informed and proficient community committed to eradicating gender-based discrimination and violence.
“The visit to Halabja and the success of the Her Voice project serve as significant affirmations of our dedication to promoting gender equality and empowering women,” expressed a spokesperson from the U.S. Consulate General. “This initiative establishes a model for future endeavors in the area and beyond.”
This incredible tale of transformation and empowerment in Halabja Governorate is a shining example of the power of dedicated advocacy and community engagement in creating long-lasting social change. Her Voice highlights the collaborative endeavor and unwavering commitment to establish a just, secure, and all-encompassing society for women in Halabja and beyond.
Ausama AlKurd is an independent journalist and the Project Manager of Her Voice Project. He also serves as the Head of the Halabja Office for the Iraq Space Center Organization (IQSC).
