By Sumika Perera, Director, Women’s Resource Centre, Kurunegala

A Journey Sparked in Beijing

"Attending the Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing in 1995 was a turning point in my life. It ignited a lifelong commitment to fight for women’s rights and dignity," reflects Sumika Perera.

Over the past 30 years, she has gathered a wealth of experience and made significant contributions to the advancement of the women’s movement in Sri Lanka.

Milestones of the Women’s Movement

"Today, women’s voices echo from every corner of Sri Lanka. We continue to protest against injustice, inequality, and oppression," Sumika shares proudly.

In the Kurunegala District, where she has been deeply engaged, the victories achieved through grassroots activism have provided a strong foundation for national campaigns that have helped secure rights for all women across the country.

Protecting Rights and Building Social Change

"One of our major tasks has been to protect women from the deep harm caused by discriminatory norms and gender biases," she explains.

Sumika and her colleagues have tirelessly supported women affected by conflict, particularly widows who faced immense hardships, including exploitation while seeking services.

"Organizing women, raising awareness, and influencing national policy have been critical strategies in our journey towards meaningful change," she adds.

Promoting Reconciliation and Ethnic Harmony

Sumika also emphasizes the importance of peacebuilding:

"Healing the scars of war means bringing people together. I had the privilege of working with war widows from the North and East, and widows of military families — building bridges of understanding, promoting ethnic harmony, and supporting reconciliation efforts."

Her leadership of the Kurunegala District Task Force during the 2016 national consultations for reconciliation remains a significant highlight of her activism.

Advocating for Migrant Women and Empowering Local Communities

"Migrant women face unique challenges that often go unnoticed," Sumika points out.

Her advocacy extended to organizing and empowering migrant women, ensuring their rights were recognized and defended.

In Kurunegala, her work focused on strengthening the social, economic, and political rights of women, helping them claim their rightful place in society.

Celebrating Key Victories

Reflecting on key milestones, Sumika states:

"The passing of the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act in 2005 and the 25% mandatory women’s quota in local government in 2017 were hard-won victories. They remind us that persistent advocacy and grassroots leadership matter."

She recalls leading women political leaders in Kurunegala, empowering them to step forward and assume leadership roles with confidence and determination.

Persevering Through Challenges

"The COVID-19 pandemic and socio-political crises were serious setbacks. But despite the hurdles, we continued to move forward — because the rights, safety, and dignity of women could not wait," Sumika reflects with quiet determination.

Her journey, and that of countless other women activists across Sri Lanka, stands as a testament to resilience, courage, and unwavering hope for a better, more just world.