The young women of Fiji

from w
I feel proud of many young women (and men) of Fiji who are doing their darndest for a good life for the ordinary people, speaking up for truth and justice. One such young woman is Virisila Buadromo.

from Fiji Times today:
Buadromo receives courage award from RiceTuesday, March 11, 2008

Update: 10:50AM ONE of the more vocal human rights activists in Fiji during the 2006 coup was awarded one of the United States Governments most prestigious awards for courage. The Executive Director of the Fiji Womens Rights Movement (FWRM), Ms. Virisila Buadromo, was today awarded for courage the Secretary of States International Women of Courage Award for 2008.

U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice herself presented the award to Ms. Buadromo in a special ceremony at the State Department in Washington, D.C., for showing exceptional courage and leadership in advocating for womens rights and advancement in Fiji. Later in the day, Ms. Buadromo was saluted in a White House ceremony, hosted by President Bush, in honor of International Womens Day.

Ms. Buadromo is the sole awardee from the East Asia/Pacific region.

The award notes that Ms. Buadromo has continued to advocate for gender equality, legal and political reform, and democracy despite the challenges and threats resulting from Fijis 2006 military coup. It notes too that despite the political climate, Ms. Buadromo and her team continue to help women and children access justice and defend their rights.

Ms. Buadromo and the other awardees are now participating in a high-profile program of events in Washington and New York in celebration of International Womens Day.