INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY!

 You are a woman, not just a woman. In ancient times, there was a significant difference in the way women were treated compared to men. Filipinos believed that women were limited to household chores and were not given the ability or right to work or speak. Moreover, in the past and present world, we still see harassment and discrimination against women. They are often regarded as mere objects in society or inferior to men. Women back then were known for their pure hearts and modesty. In households, decision-making was usually in the hands of the father, and even today, there are still cases of violence against women because of the belief that men are more powerful and better decision-makers than women. 

But in the present generation, women have been given their rights to express themselves and the freedom to do tasks traditionally seen as for men. The government has enacted laws to protect women, such as the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act or the Violence against Women and Girls Act, which prohibit abuse and discrimination against them. Additionally, women are now allowed to lead in politics. Their hearts are pure and their only desire is their rights. Women should also be regarded as the most important in society. A woman is more precious than any expensive gemstone that needs to be cherished, loved, and respected. Women are free and should not be restricted. Respecting women is respecting your mother. 

I believe that everyone should be treated equally in society—without superiority or inferiority. Women, they are the guiding light for the youth to become responsible in life. They are the reason why we are here in the world. They nurture and take care of us until we grow up. In today's time, everyone can clearly see the abilities and talents of women. Many women in the Philippines are recognized for their successes, such as Hidilyn Diaz, a weightlifter who brought home medals for the country; Whang-od, the oldest tattoo artist in the Philippines; VP Sara Duterte, who is currently leading; Pia Wurtzbach and Catriona Gray, known as Miss Universe winners; and Miriam Defensor, known for her intelligence. Through their successes, they show women's empowerment.

The whole world celebrates International Women's Day to celebrate the importance and rights of women, and they should not be treated as mere beings. They should be respected and given attention. Women are capable of doing jobs previously thought to be only for men. They also have the ability to think and make decisions for the greater good. Women empowerment needs to be supported and strengthened because abuse still occurs in society. Discrimination is in various ways—physically, economically, or even emotionally. Let us respect our fellow human beings and not treat anyone differently. No one is above others in society. Give emphasis to the right to express oneself because women are capable of doing what men can do.

Women, whether young or old, should be respected as individuals. They are the ones who carry life in their wombs until birth, they are the first teachers and caregivers until adulthood, and they teach us how to be responsible in our actions and decisions in life. This is a call to continue the fight for equal treatment and respect for women. Let us amplify the voices of women and advocate for their rights and dignity in every aspect of society. Happy International Women's Day!

Reference links:

Martha Stewart Living. ( 2023, June 9). 10 Long-Lasting Flowers for Your Garden. Retrieved from https://www.marthastewart.com/long-lasting-flowers-for-garden-7496957

123RF. (n.d.). Women's Empowerment Art - Clipart Vector. Retrieved from https://www.123rf.com/clipart-vector/women_s_empowerment_art.html?page=2

Real Simple. (2024, February 29). International Women's Day. Retrieved from https://www.realsimple.com/work-life/international-womens-day

Times of India. (n.d.). Happy Women's Day 2024: Top 50 wishes, messages, and quotes to share with your loved ones. Retrieved from https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/events/happy-womens-day-2024-top-50-wishes-messages-and-quotes-to-share-with-your-loved-ones/amp_articleshow/108241410.cms