Gender and Blindness: Beyond advocacy Penny Lyons & Ken Bassett IAPB 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 leadership Gender equity objectives and targets integrated into all eye related policy, programs and projects Sex specific analysis and reporting

What works? Community based programs with trained providers/advocates/counselors Reducing social, financial and cultural barriers Providing 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 care Economic Organizations: microfinance Health Organizations: female community health volunteers Educators: health advocates/teachers

Is Advocacy Working? Nope

Why isn ’ t advocacy working? Because most policy is written and spoken by men to men Public meetings are conducted by men Printed materials are designed and distributed by men Donor 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 results Facilitate women working with women domestically and internationally

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

Thank you