Gender and Blindness: Beyond advocacy

Penny Lyons & Ken BassettIAPB September 2012

What do we want?Gender equity as a strategic priority for all organizations demanding rigorous targets and objectives and the full commitment of leadershipGender equity objectives and targets integrated into all eye related policy, programs and projectsSex specific analysis and reporting

What works?Community based programs with trained providers/advocates/counselorsReducing social, financial and cultural barriersProviding more opportunities and entry points to access services

How does it work?Linking with well established, well respected women or women’s organizations to assist with eye careEconomic Organizations: microfinanceHealth Organizations: female community health volunteersEducators: health advocates/teachers

Is Advocacy Working?

Nope

Why isn’t advocacy working?

Because most policy is written and spoken by men to menPublic meetings are conducted by menPrinted materials are designed and distributed by menDonor agencies, hospitals, government , health authorities are governed by men

What should donors/funders do?Make funding to partners contingent on gender equity in care/treatment Have specific strategies and budgets to support the achievement of gender equality resultsFacilitate women working with women domestically and internationally

What should NGO’s Do?Choose community partners where women play a dominant or significant roleProvide leadership , resources , tools & training to women and women ‘s groupsJob descriptions with explicit responsibilities and rewards for implementing gender equity objectives and strategiesShare information beyond peer reviewed journals – facilitate women working with women domestically and internationally

Thank you