By Dr Hubert Minnis

ON November 25, 1962, Bahamian women gained the right to vote in our national general elections. Wednesday marked the 53rd anniversary of this tremendous feat. At every pivotal turn in the history of The Bahamas, women have played an integral and inspiring role. The historic votes of Bahamian women at the polls in the 1960s significantly helped to change the political landscape of our country.

This remarkable right to vote victory has contributed much to the shaping of an independent and modern Bahamas. Bahamian women, the once unsung heroes, have now made the mark of governor general, deputy prime minister, Cabinet minister, member of Parliament, highly qualified doctors, lawyers, educators, engineers, accountants, business owners, farmers, pilots, religious leaders and other productive professions.

The ongoing wonderful story of The Bahamas boasts chapters of incredible women - straw vendors producing university graduates, single mothers moulding nation builders and housewives leading charitable organisations and supporting national leaders.

Our women, all with the humble ambition to support their families, who pump gas, sew and iron clothes, style hair, clean floors, serve food and drinks, work on construction sites and make up hotel beds are all a part of the dynamic and unique Bahamian story. This 53rd year journey we recognise today offers immense cause to celebrate the outstanding plight of Bahamian women which is synonymous with the growth and development of The Bahamas.

Today, it is with beaming pride as leader of the Free National Movement, the Official Opposition, that my family, parliamentary team, party members and supporters, join me in paying tribute to the heavyweight champions and pioneers like Dame Dr Doris Johnson, Mary Ingraham, Georgina Symonette, Mabel Walker, Eugenia Lockhart and all others who fought tirelessly to place ballots in the hands of our women.

I also find it fitting on this occasion to salute the many individuals and organisations throughout the Bahamas who continue to advocate for the rights and benefits of women.

While extremely proud of my party’s record on the advancement of women and policies and programmes implemented to support the same, matters related to the rights of women, I believe, should transcend politics.

The FNM will continue to work with all stakeholders to ensure a better quality of life for our women and all Bahamians.