National Women’s Month – March 2023

Introduction

National Women’s Month is an annual celebration in many countries, including the United States, Canada, and the Philippines. It is observed in many countries around the world during different times of the year, and its purpose is to raise awareness about gender equality, women’s rights, and the role of women in society.

What is the origin of National Women’s Month?

The observance of National Women’s Month has its roots in the women’s rights movement, which emerged in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The movement was characterized by a wide range of political and social activism aimed at achieving greater rights and opportunities for women, including the right to vote, access to education and employment, and an end to discrimination based on gender.

International Women’s Day, which is celebrated annually on March 8, is considered to be one of the earliest events in the history of National Women’s Month. The first International Women’s Day was observed in 1909, and it quickly became an important rallying point for women’s rights activists around the world.

Since then, various countries have established their own versions of Women’s Month, with the goal of promoting gender equality and empowering women.

Importance of Nationals Women’s Month

The celebration of National Women’s Month is important because it highlights the achievements of women and raises awareness of the challenges they continue to face. It is an opportunity to recognize the contributions of women to society in various fields, including science, politics, business, arts, and sports.

Moreover, it provides a platform to promote women’s rights and gender equality, and to encourage the empowerment of women through education, economic and political participation, and leadership.

Philippine Legal Mandates

In the Philippines, National Women’s Month is mandated by law through Republic Act No. 6949, which was enacted in 1990. The law declares March of every year as National Women’s Month and directs government agencies, offices, and instrumentalities, including local government units, to implement programs and activities that promote gender equality and women’s empowerment.

Under the law, the National Commission on the Role of Filipino Women (NCRFW) is the lead agency responsible for the implementation of National Women’s Month. The NCRFW works with other government agencies, civil society organizations, and private sector partners to develop and implement programs and activities that promote gender equality, eliminate discrimination against women, and empower women to participate fully in all aspects of society.

Some of the specific mandates of National Women’s Month in the Philippines include the following:

• Conducting activities that raise awareness of the role of women in history and in contemporary society
• Promoting women’s participation in decision-making processes in all sectors of society
• Supporting the economic empowerment of women, including promoting their access to education, employment, and entrepreneurship opportunities
• Promoting the health and well-being of women, including reproductive health and maternal health services
• Addressing gender-based violence and discrimination against women

2023-2028 Theme

The 2023 National Women’s Month Celebration marks a juncture in the advancement of women’s rights as it launches a new recurring theme from this year to 2028: WE for gender equality and inclusive society. It sparks a renewed commitment to the advocacy and banks on the gains achieved during the 2016-2022 theme, WE Make CHANGE Work for Women, which emphasized the need for compassionate and harmonized networks towards gender equality and women’s empowerment (GEWE).

In conclusion, National Women’s Month is a significant event that celebrates women’s achievements and advocates for gender equality. It serves as a reminder of the continuing struggle for women’s rights and the importance of promoting women’s empowerment.

source:
https://pcw.gov.ph/national-womens-month/
https://www.cnnphilippines.com/womens-month