March is CNMI Women’s Month

To recognize and celebrate all women and to promote gender equality and inclusion in the workplace, the month of March 2024 has been designated as CNMI Women’s Month and March 8, 2024 as International Women’s Day.

Dozens of dignitaries and community members joined Gov. Arnold I. Palacios, first lady Wella Palacios, and the CNMI Women’s Affairs Office last Friday at the Pedro P Tenorio Multi-Purpose Center in Susupe for the proclamation signing that recognizes and highlights the women of the CNMI.

Participants at the signing ceremony paid homage and observed a moment of silence to honor the late Felicidad Leiwamal Taman Ogumoro, and a candle was lit in her memory by her daughter, Les Ogumoro-Uludong. Felicidad Ogumoro was a former lawmaker who championed the cause of the CNMI’s indigenous population.

“Many of us know who she is, and the trail that she blazed and steered for those coming behind her. She is the epitome of not just a leader, but an individual that has the vision to provide for a better common future. We remember her legacy, and we remember the legacy of other women in our history that have made this tremendous contribution to make our lives better today,” Palacios said.

In his remarks, Palacios said that he is proud to see that the CNMI today has many women in leadership roles, and added that most individuals in his administration are women.

“I encourage our community to raise awareness on women’s rights and gender equality, take part in the appropriate programs and events of this month, and recognize the meaningful and impactful contribution made by women,” he added.

The event’s inspirational speaker, Liekeila’akata Iakopo, said, “My way to success was paved for me by women, those before me and those in my life. My late godmother, my grandmother, and my mother each taught me what strength and grit look like, while also embodying compassion and kindness. They are not only my inspiration, but my foundation and strength. For that, I am grateful.”

The theme for this year’s observance of Women’s Month is “WE (Women and Everyone) for Gender Equality, Inclusion and Resiliency,” and the theme for International Women’s Day is “Inspire Inclusion.”

The proclamation encourages community members to take part in upcoming community activities that will be held in celebration of women.

Students Kaleia Carmen Taitano Arriola, Sohayla Deleon Guerrero, and Kyuwi Elameto Lisua read the proclamation in English, Chamorro and Carolinian, and Ace Elameto Rosemarie Lisua, and Dezerae sung the national anthem.