53rd UN Commission on the Status of Women

[Susyn Reeve]

I'm a delegate to the UN Commission on the Status of Women (3/2 - 3/13/09) - it is heart-wrenching to hear stories of abuse and inequality toward women and children around the world - and it is also inspiring to hear of the courage and committment of women & men around the world to honor all beings. There are so many people, around the world, who are truly being the change they wish to see in the world.

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[Bonnie Zimmermann]

You are so right Susyn. I have spent alot of time in remote southeast Asia where the status of women is still terrible. As a woman working with an Indonesian NGO I'm allowed a certain amount of presence -- but must really conduct myself like a man and be highly aware of cultural differences and customs. After eleven trips to the same village I was finally offered a chance to enter a household and see a kitchen, family area, etc.

Women are treated as possessions still. Early childhood mortality, malaria, starvation, and civil unrest are a daily part these women's lives, yet they still love and protect their families and children. I dream of a better day for them. I've often wanted to find a way to start some sort of project there to offer women a chance to earn some of their own money and contribute more to society.

In Bali (the Hindu) and in Java (predominately Muslim) the women have much better status, are educated and integral parts of the community.

Are there any programs for women in Indonesia? I have a large contact base in Java, Maluku and West Papua.

Thank you so much for your work and being a true Architect.