March 2021
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
We have come a long way!
The month of March is a special celebratory month for women. During the International Women's Day (March 8), the world celebrates the many contributions, successes and achievements of women in various works of life. The world remembers the challenges and adversities women had faced and continue to face at different levels and various places in society. Although women have made much progress, they continue to be isolated, alienated and abused in cultures and systems around the world. International Women's Day provides that
opportunity for all to come together in recognition of women's histories and acknowledge the work that still needs to be done fighting gender injustice and seeking gender equity.
What a perfect time to acknowledge all those who have been investing their time, effort, and resources for many years to amplify women, especially women who have been left vulnerable in countries of Africa. Therefore, as the current president of Canadian Samaritans for Africa (CSA), I have the privilege to thank all CSA sponsors and donors. Your financial contributions have enabled CSA to help many women in Africa acquire skills and knowledge, and many have
become empowered and self-reliant.
Also, I would like to thank all those who have served in different capacities in CSA, members of the board of directors, trustees, advisors, volunteers, agents, project coordinators, and allies.
These men and women, from all backgrounds, cultures and countries have been tremendous in
their efforts.
I would like to dedicate this Month's bulletin in honour of the CSA founder and past president, Fr. Stan Chu Ilo, for his many years of service, selfless efforts, and unceasing dedication to women empowerment and gender equality. Fr. Stan led by example, walked the talk, used his privilege and voice to let the world recognize issues women face and the need for the world to intervene. Fr. Stan worked for several years as the president of CSA to promote educational initiatives and capacity-building to empower women. On behalf of all the women who have benefited from the work done by Fr. Stan through CSA, we extend our immense gratitude to Fr. Stan. We pray to God to continue to protect and guide him as he continues in his ministry and serves as a member of the CSA board of directors.
Our collective efforts to invest in the assets of women suffering in Africa continues. Therefore, I call on all our readers to please join CSA, as sponsors, donors, or volunteers. Together, we will continue to change the painful narratives of these women, celebrate their milestones, and continue to ensure that poverty in Africa is eradicated by helping women who are vulnerable acquire skills they need to become self-reliant and raise their children for a better future society.
Thank you
Ekwy Odozor (she/her/Dr.) @ekwyodozor
President - Canadian Samaritans for Africa
