08/03/2021
This March, we celebrate the International Womenβs Month! The theme for this yearβs celebration is βWomen in Leadership: Achieving an Equal Future in a COVID-19 World.β We remember the impactful efforts and victories by women around the world especially in moving forward amidst this pandemic. And globally, while women have led countries out of the pandemic, in the Philippines, we must continuously assert that Filipina leaders can do the same.
For far too long, women have been struggling against the oppressive and patriarchal system in our country. Prejudice against women has been manifested to this day through misogyny, gender norms, repression of their basic rights, violence against women, among others. As the pandemic struck our country, the injustices and discrimination against women were further aggravated.
Women have continuously faced numerous challenges and struggles and with the pandemic, gender-based issues have only been exacerbated. Even before this health crisis, violence against women have affected 1 out of every 4 Filipinas, according to the Philippine Commission on Women. Cases of violence against women continue to arise during this crisis especially as women are forced to confront violence and abuse as a result of the prolonged lockdown.
As we celebrate Women's Month, we further the fight of women for equality as their rights are persistently being trampled upon today. UP ALYANSA stands in solidarity with every woman across the nation as they struggle against violence and oppression. And while we fight with them, we will continue to highlight and celebrate every victory that women have championed that changed our nation for the better. We commit to a future that empowers women and recognizes their key role in society. For half of the sky is held by women, we must ensure that they are consistently given spaces to lead and succeed.
Alongside our fight for social justice and social progress, we must forward policies that address the root causes of the issues faced by women such as the Safe Spaces Act which ensures a safe and inclusive society for everyone regardless of gender. We call on the administration to prioritize ending all forms of violence that women in our country face by enacting laws that shall safeguard their rights and welfare.
Misogyny and discrimination have no place in our society. Women belong in a world where they are valued and respected. For women deserve a world where they are free to lead and make a difference.
Sulong, kababaihan!
Akbayan Youth - UP Diliman
BUKLOD CSSP
Circle of Individuals
KALikha: Kasama Ka sa Paglikha ng Arte at Literatura Para sa Bayan
Sikhay EDUK
Defend Democracy