2008 Woodie Awards
Women's march aims to educate on violence, war, censorship, wages
March celebrates the 70th anniversary of the Pecan Shellers' Strike.
By Natalie Olivares
Issue date: 3/7/08 Section: Premiere
Originally published: 3/6/08 at 3:16 PM CSTLast update: 3/6/08 at 3:15 PM CST
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International Women's Day commemorates a labor strike led by female garment and textile workers in 1857. More than 15,000 women marched down streets of New York City demanding shorter working days, better pay and equal rights.
This event marked the birth of the women's rights movement.
Today more than 45 countries celebrate International Women's Day with marches, programs, workshops and other events.
The women's march in San Antonio also commemorates the 70th anniversary of the 1938 Pecan Shellers' Strike led by Emma Tenayuca.
Tenayuca led more than 10,000 women in a march demanding better working conditions.
Traces of Tenayuca decorate the first floor of the Esperanza Peace and Justice Center.
Black-and-white photos of Tenayuca adorn the walls and lean up against the corridors reminding visitors of how far women have come, socially and politically.
Upstairs there were signs that read, "Que Vive la Mujer," (Long Live the Female) "Stop Child Abuse," "Stop Police Violence Against Women" and "United Without Borders."
The march committee is composed of artists, attorneys, students, volunteers and advocates from different organizations, each with an equal voice.
"We gather in solidarity with women across the world to honor those who have struggled before us, to celebrate our collective power, and to educate ourselves and our communities about current challenges," organizer Amanda Hass said.
According a press release from the organizers, thousands of women are expected to participate.
Once the marchers reach Milam Park, a rally will be held at Plaza del Zacate with guest speakers, artists and performers commemorating the occasion.
Eloisa Tamez, a Lipan Apache, will speak about U.S. borders and terrorism.
"We're building the wall because we're worried about terrorists, but on the border we're being terrorized by our own government," Tamez said.
Others scheduled to speak include East Side activist Nettie Hinton, high school activist Raven Medina, labor organizer Judy Lerma and Guatemalan artist Regina Jose Galindo.
Also, poet Ria Thompson will share her views.
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