VOICE OF WOMEN


	VOICE OF WOMEN Voice of Women (Kantha Handa), formed in 1978, was the first alternative women’s group in Sri Lanka committed to the ideals of feminism. We campaign for the economic, political, social and legal rights of women in Sri Lanka. We initiate research and studies on women’s issues and disseminate this information among grass roots organisations. We have conducted research projects in areas including: Child Labour Tourism and its effect on women Buddhist Nuns Women in Prisons Women workers on coconut and rubber plantations Free trade zone Survey on International Schools Domestic aides in Urban Households Racism and Poverty More recently we have conducted a study on the "Sexual Abuse of the Girl Child in Sri Lanka". We also monitor government policies and how these policies affect women. Goals: To educate Sri Lankan society about the need for feminism as an important advancement for the country’s economic development To empower women in Sri Lanka to take their rightful place in society, in all areas of education, employment and family life To promote gender sensitization and the urgent need to end all violence and discrimination against women To expose areas of violence and discrimination through research Activities: We publish a trilingual journal (in Sinhala, Tamil and English) every six months, called Voice of Women, on the problems and issues facing women in Sri Lanka. The journal is sold to the public and distributed to several organisations. Since 1978, the journal has explored a range of themes. The journal content includes essays, poetry, short stories and illustrations. More recent themes include: - Justice and Practice - Women and agriculture - Refugees - Women and health - Family We produce a newsletter which keeps the public and other NGOs informed of recent events and issues related to women We organize workshops and seminars on the sensitization of women We train selected students to paint posters and canvases, illustrating women’s issues We undertake various research projects, the findings of which are published We sell posters and cards produced by our art trainees, and we sell books by renowned women writers in Sri Lanka. We also translate books into Sinhala. The current issue of the journal – now in preparation - is on violence. Any contributions in the form of articles, poems, short stories and case studies are most welcome. Inquiries should be directed to the Editor, Voice of Women. Copies of the journal, cards and posters are available from our office. Contact: Voice of Women 21/25 Polhengoda Garden Colombo 5 Tel. - 074-407879 E-mail - voicewom@sltnet.lk Co-ordinator: Eva Ranaweera