The Cali Women's March: A Call for Equality and Justice that Echoed Through Colombia

The year was 2018, and a wave of discontent was sweeping through Colombia, fueled by widespread inequality, violence against women, and a lack of political representation. This simmering frustration finally boiled over in Cali, the vibrant third-largest city in the country, when thousands of women took to the streets in a powerful display of solidarity and defiance. The Cali Women’s March marked a pivotal moment in Colombia’s recent history, forcing the nation to confront its deeply ingrained social issues and paving the way for meaningful change.

The march was not a spontaneous eruption but rather the culmination of years of grassroots organizing by feminist groups, human rights activists, and concerned citizens. These dedicated individuals had been tirelessly working to raise awareness about the systemic injustices faced by women in Colombia, from pervasive gender-based violence and discrimination to limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.

The spark that ignited the march was the horrifying murder of a young Indigenous woman named Martha Sofía Hernández. This brutal act of violence, coupled with the government’s perceived inaction and indifference, served as a catalyst for the collective outrage that ultimately propelled women onto the streets.

On March 8th, International Women’s Day, an estimated 200,000 people flooded the streets of Cali, transforming the bustling metropolis into a sea of purple, white, and green – the colors of the Colombian flag. The atmosphere was electric with energy, determination, and hope as women from all walks of life – students, mothers, grandmothers, activists, and even men who stood in solidarity with the movement – marched peacefully, chanting slogans demanding justice, equality, and an end to violence.

The marchers carried banners highlighting the various forms of oppression they faced:

The Cali Women’s March was not confined to the streets of a single city; its impact reverberated throughout Colombia and beyond. Similar demonstrations sprang up in cities across the country, demonstrating the widespread nature of the movement and its ability to unite women from diverse backgrounds under a common cause.

Furthermore, the march sparked a national dialogue about gender inequality and violence against women. For the first time, these issues were being openly discussed in the mainstream media, prompting politicians, academics, and ordinary citizens to confront their own biases and prejudices.

The immediate aftermath of the Cali Women’s March saw the Colombian government take some steps to address the concerns raised by the demonstrators. These included:

• Increased funding for women’s shelters and support services.
• Launch of awareness campaigns aimed at preventing gender-based violence.
• Passage of legislation strengthening legal protections for women and girls.

While these measures were seen as a positive step forward, many activists argue that they fall short of addressing the root causes of gender inequality in Colombia. They continue to advocate for more radical changes, including:

• Implementation of quotas for women’s representation in political office.
• Comprehensive reforms to address economic disparities between men and women.
• Transformation of cultural norms and attitudes that perpetuate violence against women.

The Cali Women’s March serves as a reminder that social change is often born from the collective action of ordinary people. It highlights the power of peaceful protest to challenge injustice and demand a more equitable society. While much work remains to be done, the march marked a significant turning point in Colombia’s journey towards gender equality.

It’s important to acknowledge the contributions of individuals like Isabella “Isa” Santos, a young Colombian filmmaker who captured the spirit and power of the Cali Women’s March through her poignant documentary film. Isa’s work not only documented the events of that day but also shed light on the broader context of gender inequality in Colombia, amplifying the voices of women and inspiring others to join the fight for social justice.

The legacy of the Cali Women’s March continues to resonate today, serving as a symbol of hope and inspiration for future generations of activists who are determined to build a more just and equitable world.