On the occasion of International Women's Day 2023, Acid Survivors Foundation (ASF) organized an online seminar, on Thursday, March 9, 2023. This year, ASF has celebrated the day on the theme of an Acid Survivor’s story: "I did not break, I did not stop, I turned around".
The event was chaired by Dr. Julia Ahmed, Acting Chairperson of ASF, and moderated by Jamil Ahmed, Media Personality and TV Presenter.
Sarder Jahangir Hossain, Executive Director, ASF delivered the welcome speech and stated the purpose of the meeting followed by Tahmina Islam, Coordinator-Program, presented the goals and activities of Acid Survivors Foundation alongside the current scenario of acid violence in Bangladesh. Dr Tabassum and Sabrin Mahmuda from ASF added with Tahmina on the limitations that ASF has been facing since the pandemic and how the support from the donor community can aid ASF in resuming its work better than before. Acid survivors Lulu Mansura and Khadija Akhter Khushi shared their brave journey of turning around post the acid violence and how ASF consistently supported them throughout their journey.
Kate Sangster, the first secretary of Australian High Commission praised the efforts of ASF while extending their support for it.
She also highlighted the importance of supporting the survivors in leading a dignified life. Roquia Haider, former chief editor of Voice of America joined the seminar all the way from the United Stated of America and encouraged the acid survivors to turn around and have the belief to conquer the world.
Professor Dr Kabir Chowdhury, one of the leading dermatologists of the country emphasized on gender equality and urged the medical community to come forward in support of the acid victims in the best way possible. Dr Jebunnessa, Professor of Public Administration, at Jahangirnagar University, asked to focus on the implementation of the law and to spread mass awareness including the student community.
Air Commodore (Retd) Ishfaq I. Chowdhury stated justice must be served visibly and asked ASF to explore opportunities on collection of fund. Wahida Banu from Aporajeyo Bangla urged to learn and handle the changing type of violence and ensuring the proper monitoring. She emphasized the importance of government support in such initiative and invites all to work together in it. M Golam Abbas asked to strengthen the network to facilitate the rehabilitation of survivors and to circulate in among the respective communities for their support. The event was attended by prominent guests from Lighthouse, Bhumija Foundation, Good Neighbors Bangladesh, TMSS, WBB Trust, Aporajeyo Bangla, Brac, Action Aid and many more.