Agadez, Niger –
On a sunny Sunday afternoon, March 6, 2022, in Agadez, Niger, eight women from the Women’s Association of Air Base 201 were greeted by 20 warm smiling women from the Tehirt Women’s Association. Together, the women unloaded water, rice, pasta and American snacks from a car in preparation for celebrating International Women’s Day.
International Women’s Day (March 8) is a global day to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. It is also a day to raise awareness against bias and promote gender equality.
Every year, International Women’s Day has a campaign theme, and this year’s theme is “Time to Break Prejudice”. This theme depicts a world where men and women are equal and free of prejudice, stereotypes and discrimination. A world that is diverse, fair, inclusive and where differences are respected and celebrated.
“We’re here to celebrate these women and their willingness to help and be independent,” said Temporary Attack Officer Mary Leszczuk, airborne specialist with the 404th Civil Affairs Battalion. “We want to use the day to get to know the women in this community and how they’re trying to break down discrimination.” [gender] bias.”
Not only did the women celebrate International Women’s Day and learn about history, they also took the time to strengthen their relationships with each other and learn about each other’s everyday lives.
During a lunch panel discussion, women shared their views on leadership and gender. The Tehilt Women’s Association also quizzed female U.S. military personnel about their experiences in the military.
“I’m really happy that women can now join the military. It wasn’t allowed in this country before, but more and more women are joining,” said a member of the Tehilt Women’s Association. “I think it’s a good thing that people can join the military and provide for their families.”
During the panel discussion, the women explained how Niger’s culture is changing and society is empowering women, with the culture now making it more acceptable for women to take on male-dominated jobs and encouraging them to attend school.
“I think they look at us and see positivity, they see possibility and they see a way forward,” said Maj. Maribel Seegmiller, 724th Expeditionary Air Base Squadron operations chief.
To be part of an evolving culture, the Tehilt Women’s Association offers a two-year program that teaches women how to use sewing machines and turn the new skills they learn into a business, with the goal of making them financially stable.
“It’s also an opportunity for us to learn new skills and provide for our families,” said a member of the Tehilt Women’s Association. “Now we can dream and see the possibilities of what is possible in the future.”
The AB201 Women’s Association enthusiastically supported the Tehilt Women’s Association.
“The goal of AB201 and the Women’s Association is to empower the women of Agadez through physical, emotional and psychological support,” Leszczuk said. “We want to express our gratitude to all the organizations, like Tehilt, that encourage women to study professions that have traditionally been exclusively performed by men.”
Members of the AB201 Women’s Association purchased a total of approximately 250,000 West African CFA Francs (US$420) in items including handmade scarves, ceramic sculptures, henna tattoos and dresses to support their newly acquired vocational skills.
“We saw how important it was for the women to show us their skills,” said Airman 1st Class Catrice Rojas, 724th Air Special Forces Commander Support Staff. “Learning to sew is a way for them to better themselves, their community and their families, and it’s a way for them to start working toward their future goals.”
The United States remains deeply committed to our partnership with the Government of Niger. Events like this build relationships based on shared experiences and new cultural perspectives. For some, it was an experience that leaves a lasting impact.
“It was a really great experience for me,” said Staff Sgt. Joyelle Cobb-Sanders, a personnel support contingency operations specialist with the 409th Air Expeditionary Group. “We sat down, ate and talked. I’ve never experienced anything like it. It’s something I’ll never forget!”
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