Time for Action: Break the Chain

Every Eighth of the Third Month of the Year

The celebration of the International Women’s Day traces its roots back to the militant actions of women as a response to their dire situations during the industrial revolution.

Every March 8 of the year, women’s economic, political, and social achievements are commemorated. Every eighth of the third month of the year, the capacity of women to take action to shape her-story is remembered.

A Quick Look on Women’s Problems: Then and Now

But while there have been improvements in the status of women over the years thanks to their campaign for change, we are still far from achieving equality. Below is a list of SOME of the problems that could give us an idea of the situation of women, then and now.

Then

• Unsanitary and dangerous working conditions
• Double burden: factory work followed by domestic chores
• Limited political rights
• Subordination to men

Now

• Hunger and poverty
• Gender-based discrimination (unequal access to education, rights, and opportunities)
• Violence Against Women and Girls

In Focus: Violence Against Women (and Girls)

The last problem listed above is reflected in the theme of this year’s celebration: “A promise is a promise: Time for action to end violence against women”.

At present, violence against women remains as one of the world’s pervasive social problems.

It is estimated that up to seven in ten women globally will be beaten, raped, abused, or mutilated in their lifetimes – and most of this violence takes place in intimate relationships.

~ United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women)

In the Philippines, approximately 26 women are victims of gender-based violence – and these are just based on the documented cases. In fact, the actual number of victims is probably higher!

From the comfort women who suffered sexual slavery during the Japanese occupation to domestic workers subjected to assault and isolation by their employers, to systemic causes of intimate partner abuse, the Philippines has had enough of violence against women. Watch as they RISE in this short film for ONE BILLION RISING, a campaign by V-Day culminating on Feb. 14, 2013 with a billion people striking [and] dancing in the streets to oppose violence against women.

~Youtube user vdayorg

Breaking the Chain: Ending Violence Against Women

Break the Chain

While there are laws that seek to address this problem, more can be done in order to: (1) prevent violence, and (2) provide relief and support services to the victims.

At the individual level, gender sensitivity is simply what is needed. This coupled with information dissemination and education on gender sensitivity and equality  are the first steps to eliminate VAW!

So, what now? Take the vow to end VAW!