Indigenous Women’s Forum of North East India (IWFNEI) held its general assembly and organized an interface at AIDA Don Bosco School, Dimapur, Nagaland from February 26 to 29.
A press release from Charis High Academy principal stated that, session began with an interface between Nepuni Piku of NPMHR and IWFNI members on the international and national rights of indigenous people vis-a vis regional and local issues for empowerment of IPs in India and the North-East today. Forum was of the view that the over-arching patriarchal traditions and power structures subjugating women in tribal societies will give way to justice and equality when men and women in the society dialogue together at many levels. IWFNEI sees the role of the church and other village and state-level institution as critically important.
Reports from the various units and states highlighted the commonality of issue among women which become the basis for future programmes. New office bearers were also selected for the term 2020-2023 from among the unit members. Convenor and co-convenor of IWFNEI are Komoli and Abole from Arunachal Pradesh and Assam respectively. Other office bearers were also selected to shoulder the programs and activities of IWFNEI.
Women from 5 North Eastern states participated in the event, supported by Asia Indigenous Peoples Pact, Chiangmi, Thailand.