March is a month for celebration for women across the globe. Thanks to international events like the month-long International Women’s Month and International Women’s Day held every March 8, the spotlight turns to women’s diverse contributions that sparked inspiration, change, and inclusion in various industries.
Over the years, the Philippines has had its fair share of women contributing to this inclusive society. Filipinas have a long and rich history of breaking barriers and fostering inclusivity in the Philippines. From challenging societal norms to advocating for marginalized communities, their unwavering spirit paves the way for a more equitable future.
Philippine history has seen several women set the precedent for how they can accomplish various tasks, sometimes even better.
One example is Gabriela Silang, a historical figure, who continues to inspire inclusivity and remains a symbol of resistance and female empowerment. She led, alongside her husband, Diego Silang, the Philippine revolution against the Spanish, playing a crucial role in mobilizing and uniting their forces. Her bravery and leadership challenged the social norms of her time, demonstrating the strength and capability of Filipinas.
Another revolutionary Filipina was Trinidad Tecson, named “Ina ng Biak-na-Bato” (Mother of the Biak-na-Bato Republic), for establishing a facility to care for the wounded during the revolution. She also fought alongside her fellow Filipinos against the Spanish and Americans. She was also known as the “Mother of the Philippine Red Cross” for nursing injured Filipino soldiers.
Modern Filipinas are also making waves in their respective fields, setting an example of how young women can achieve their dreams as beauty queens, athletes, politicians, and more.
Take Filipina mountaineer, adventurer, and Philippine Coast Guard officer Carina Dayondon, for example. She literally achieved great heights by being the first Filipina to reach the peak of Vinson Massif, Antarctica’s highest mountain, in December 2018. Eventually, she also conquered Mount Everest with two other Filipinas.
In the fashion industry, Josephina Almeda Cruz, famously known as Josie Natori, has also established her credibility, becoming a self-made billionaire who runs The Natori Company, an international women’s fashion brand. She grew up in a family that valued independence and nurtured the entrepreneurial spirit among its female members. Despite running a New York-based international company, she gives back to the community by employing workers for her factory in Manila and supports Filipino artists by providing study grants through the Asian Cultural Council.
Speaking of the arts, another modern Filipina who placed Filipinos in the global spotlight is Lea Salonga. She is widely known for lending her voice to the characters of Mulan and Princess Jasmine, but her career history goes well beyond her Disney roles. Being the first Asian woman to play Éponine and Fantine in the Broadway musical Les Misérables, as well as winning Tony Awards for Best Performance and Best Direction of a Musical for Miss Saigon, Lea cemented her status as one of the greatest vocalists of our time performing on Broadway. TIME magazine honored the powerful singer at the TIME100 Impact Awards for being a “life-long role model for kids of color” and for continuing to tear down boundaries.
While these Filipinas gained international and local acclaim, it’s vital to recognize the daily efforts of women who open new doors for other women.
Celebrating women across the globe
International Women’s Day is a global celebration highlighting women’s social, economic, cultural, and political achievements. It’s an annual reminder of the progress toward gender equality while raising awareness on the areas that need work.
This 2024, the campaign theme “Inspire Inclusion” emphasizes the relevance of diversity and empowerment throughout society. It calls for action to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create environments where all women are valued and respected to recognize the unique perspectives and contributions of women from all walks of life, including those from marginalized communities.
Numerous events, from concerts to seminars to demonstrations, were held globally to show solidarity for women during a time when the world needed to see that women’s voices, opinions, and contributions matter immensely.
However, it’s not only women who can play a significant role in sparking change and inspiring inclusion. Since its beginning in 1911, the day has fostered a strong sense of solidarity globally.
There should never be a conflict about support for International Women’s Day amongst groups or organizations claiming to be in the best or correct position. Because feminism is eclectic and inclusive, any endeavor to advance women’s equality is welcome, legitimate, and deserving of respect. There is room and a place for everyone in the spirit of abundance. Being truly inclusive means that everyone, wherever they may be, can contribute to the good cause.
The first International Women’s Day was observed in 1911 across Europe, with over a million people participating in rallies demanding voting rights, better working conditions, and an end to discrimination. The following years saw the day celebrated on various dates, often coinciding with significant events.
In 1917, Russian women marked International Women’s Day with a powerful strike for “bread and peace,” protesting food shortages, World War I, and the Tsarist government. This historic event was credited with contributing to the spark of the Russian Revolution.
After World War II, March 8 became the widely recognized date for International Women’s Day. The United Nations officially embraced the day in 1975 during International Women’s Year. Since then, the UN has chosen annual themes to focus global attention on specific issues women face, ranging from gender equality and peacebuilding to ending violence against women.
International Women’s Day has evolved from a socialist movement rally to a globally recognized day of celebration and activism. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for women’s rights and a platform to call for a more just and equitable future for all.
This March, let the women before and the ones now lead by example on how gender shouldn’t keep anyone from achieving their goals because there’s more to women than just being a gender. With the right community that fosters their growth, they can achieve great things that can inspire others to create a more inclusive society for everyone.