Nominations are now being accepted for the 2017 U.S. Secretary of State’s Women of Courage Award, announces the U.S. Embassy.
The Women of Courage Award honours women who are making history in their countries and communities through their work to better their societies, to fight discrimination or strife, and to help resolve conflicts.
“Eligible candidates are women working in the political, human rights, economic, social, judicial, health, educational, press/media, peace and national reconciliation, and scientific and technological arenas,” the embassy said in a statement.
“The U.S. Embassy will consider women who have taken unusual risks, surmounted difficult obstacles, or challenged harmful cultural practices or discrimination in their efforts to promote progress for women and girls, and for their society as a whole. Women who are striving to break down barriers in order to promote positive change are great candidates for the award – so nominate someone now!”
Since the award’s inception in 2007, the United States has honoured women who have risked their lives and well-being to stop human trafficking, gender-based violence, child marriage and corruption. The award has honoured women who have been imprisoned, tortured and threatened with death for standing up for justice, human rights, constitutional reform and the rule of law.
“One nominee per country (one each from Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu) will be chosen by the U.S. Embassy and their names will be sent to Washington, DC, for consideration for the Secretary’s International Women of Courage Award,” said the embassy.
“One top finalist from each geographic region around the world will be selected to participate in a high-profile ceremony and program of events in Washington, DC, in commemoration of International Women’s Day in March.
“As part of that trip to Washington, DC, the top finalists will also participate in a two-week program to network with American counterparts in other U.S. cities and meet leaders working to advance women’s empowerment.”
Nomination forms and instructions are available online at: http://bit.ly/2eII4pl or in hard copy at the U.S. Embassy on Douglas Street in Port Moresby.
Nominations are due by November 21, 2016, at 4.30pm, and can be submitted by e-mail, fax, mail, or hand delivered to:
U.S. Embassy Port Moresby
Attention: Agatha Pio, Gender Issues Assistant
P.O. Box 1492, Douglas Street, Town, NCD, Port Moresby
E-mail: EconPortMoresby@state.gov
Phone: +675-321-1455, x2211 or +675-7091-5851
Fax: +675-321-1593
(2016 International Women of Courage Nominees. From left to right: Winnie William from PNG and Dr. Alice Pollard, middle, from Solomon Islands.)