On December 9, 2024, at 3:00 PM, a cultural event was held at the Shoparjito Shadhinota premises (situated opposite TSC, University of Dhaka) as part of the International Anti-Violence Against Women Fortnight-2024. The event was organized by the Social Resistance Committee to honor “Rokeya Day.” Dr. Fauzia Moslem, the President of the Central Committee of Bangladesh Mahila Parishad (BMP), led the event. Speakers from the Social Resistance Committee included prominent human rights activist Shipa Hafiza; Shahnaz Sumi, Director of Bangladesh Nari Progati Sangha; Hasina Akter from Kormojibi Nari; Chandan Lahiri of Steps Towards Development; Helen Monisha Sarkar, General Secretary of the YWCA Bangladesh; Dr. Jobaida Nasreen from the Department of Anthropology at the University of Dhaka; and Samapika Haldar from ADAB.
Committee members honored Rokeya Sakhawat with floral wreaths at her portrait. Musician Chhaya Karmakar entertained the audience with music. Shipa Hafiza highlighted Rokeya’s vision for a society without ignorance, discrimination, or oppression, emphasizing collaboration across genders and classes. She criticized the education system for not empowering resistance against oppression, urging major reforms.
Shahnaz Sumi emphasized that Begum Rokeya was a trailblazer in women’s education and also concentrated on promoting women’s progress on a global scale through her literary works. She called on both men and women to break free from mental enslavement in order to advance as a society.
Chandan Lahiri voiced disappointment regarding the suggestion to rename Rokeya University in Rangpur. He highlighted the advancements and accomplishments in women’s liberation since the era of Begum Rokeya and Ayesha Khanam.
Hasina Akter referenced Rokeya, stating that the interests of women and men are aligned, and women deserve recognition as humans and for their contributions to all areas of development. She highlighted the importance of creating a society free from violence against women, ensuring their safety at all times.
Helen Monisha Sarkar noted that despite advancements, full liberation has yet to be achieved. Women continue to be hindered by various superstitions and obstacles, and she urged women to unite and overcome these challenges.
Dr. Jobaida Nasreen observed that patriarchal attitudes are sometimes perpetuated by women themselves, which poses a barrier to progress.
In her closing remarks, Dr. Fauzia Moslem emphasized the need to advance the movement against gender discrimination, initially started by Rokeya, and stressed the ongoing struggle required for women to receive equal recognition and opportunities. She also called for more research and publications on Rokeya.
The event featured a poetry recital by Samapika Haldar from ADAB and ended with dance performances by Mukta Thakur, Manusanghita, and Setu and her team. It was attended by approximately 150 people, including representatives from member organizations of the Social Resistance Committee, leaders BMP, and journalists from both print and electronic media.
The program was moderated by Jana Goswami, Central Advocacy and Lobby Director of BMP.
