#POWiPL – Meera Vijayann to give Pierhead lecture on gender rights and sexual violence against women

Published 13/11/2014   |   Last Updated 09/06/2015

Renowned journalist and campaigner for gender rights across the globe, Meera Vijayann, will give a lecture at the Pierhead on 20 November.

The lecture forms part of the Presiding Officer, Dame Rosemary Butler AM's, Women in Public Life (#POWiPL) campaign.

Meera Vijayann's session is one of a series of lectures delivered by inspirational female role models from different sectors which are traditionally dominated by men.

She will focus on how women can be empowered by the digital era we live in to initiate change and make their voices heard.

"By stepping forward and speaking up, women can create a global movement towards ensuring a world free of discrimination, violence and fear," said Ms Vijayaan.

"By engaging in debate online and speaking up, women can create a global movement by breaking stereotypes, creating dialogue and participating in change." 

Previous speakers at #POWiPL lectures have included broadcaster and commentator Janet Street-Porter, Shami Chakrabarti, Director of civil liberties campaign group Liberty, and leading scientist Baroness Susan Greenfield.

"It is a privilege to be able to welcome Meera Vijayann to speak to us about the campaign to end sexual violence against women," said the Presiding Officer.

"We have witnessed horrendous examples of sexual crimes against women on our news programmes - crimes that rightly outrage us all.

"In some parts of the world, speaking up against such evil acts can sometimes put your own safety in jeopardy.

"That's why we must pay tribute to women like Meera who demonstrate to us that we must all stand up and be counted when it comes to issues of sexual violence and gender equality.

"Part of that is empowering and encouraging women to enter public life, and that is the central theme of my Women in Public Life campaign."

The lecture will begin at 18.00 on 20 November.

There are still some spaces available which can be booked via assembly.bookings@wales.gov.uk or by calling 0845 010 5500 / 01492 523200.