The Mahatma Peace Symposium 2024, held at the NSW Parliament House on 24 September, celebrated the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi while launching the “Super Naari – A Period Equity Initiative.” Organised by the Saroni Roy Foundation (SRf), the event aimed to raise awareness on the global crisis of period poverty and advocate for menstrual education and product accessibility. This year’s theme, “Women, Peace, and Security,” reflected Gandhi’s advocacy for the vital role of women in leading non-violent, inclusive societies.
The symposium featured the Global Peacebuilders Forum 2024, which included a panel discussion addressing the intersection of gender equity, peace, and the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda. The focus was on the critical issue of period poverty, considered a “Global Peace Economics Crisis.” The Super Naari initiative aims to provide inclusive access to menstrual health products and education, empowering women and girls to participate fully in education and economic activities without stigma or limitations.
The event was attended by a diverse range of prominent figures, including politicians, social activists, and community leaders, highlighting the widespread support for initiatives promoting gender equity and peacebuilding. The symposium also included cultural performances by the Sarhad Project, an art-for-peace musical duo that added an uplifting and unifying atmosphere to the occasion.
SRf’s commitment to gender equity is further emphasised through its collaboration with a global network of partners to sustain the Super Naari campaign for the next five years. The initiative aims to achieve measurable outcomes in reducing school dropout rates, improving participation in sports and other activities, and enhancing the overall quality of life for menstruating individuals in vulnerable communities.
The symposium was a testament to Mahatma Gandhi’s enduring legacy and his belief in the power of women as agents of change. Through discussions on policy, social justice, and practical solutions to period poverty, the event marked a significant step toward creating inclusive and peaceful societies globally.
