BY KAREN BOSSICK
The COVID-19 could have a catastrophic impact on women and girls globally as it deepens inequalities around the globe. Millions of women, for instance, could risk losing the ability to plan their families and protect their own health.
Dr. Natalia Kanem, executive director of UNFPA, will discuss her agency’s efforts to help health-care systems at risk of collapsing when she speaks at the Bonni Curran Memorial Lecture, which will open the 13th annual Family of Woman Festival on Tuesday, Sept. 8.
Dr. Kamen had been scheduled to deliver The Bonni Curran Memorial Lecture in February 2019 but was called away on a special assignment by the Secretary General of the United Nations, said Festival Founder Peggy Elliott Goldwyn.
She can address an array of problems caused by nations being paralyzed by the pandemic. For instance, more than 47 million women in 114 countries could possibly be unable to access modern contraceptives, resulting in more than 7 million unintended pregnancies.
Over 31 million cases of gender-based violence are expected with a six-month lockdown. For every three additional months an additional 15 million cases are expected.
To ensure her talk addresses the issues concerning the audience, Kanem has asked that questions be submitted in advice at info@friendsofunfpa.org no later than 10 a.m. Monday, Aug. 24.
In addition to Kanem, the Festival will feature feature films virtually and free to the public through The Community Library Sept. 9 through 13. Films include “Apache 8,” “The Perfect Candidate,” “Councilwoman,” “A Girl from Mogadishu,” “Akashinga: The Brave Ones” and “King of the Masks.”
All programs start at 6 p.m. with weekend matinee films at 4 p.m.
There are also special talks and screenings for donors. Proceeds are donated to Friends of UNFPA, the U.S. charity raising funds for UNFPA’s work (www.unfpa.org).
To learn how you can access Kanem’s talk and the films, visit www.familyofwomanfilmfestival.org.