#PurpleFridays: A Call for Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment
March is National Women’s Month in the Philippines, a time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of Filipino women in various fields and sectors. It is also a time to raise awareness and advocate for issues that affect women’s rights and welfare, such as gender-based violence, discrimination, and inequality.
This year, the theme for the National Women’s Month is "Lipunang Patas sa Bagong Pilipinas; Kakayahan ng Kababaihan, patutunayan!"1 This theme calls for a “new Philippines” where women are given equitable opportunities and not hindered by gender biases and stereotypes. It also aims to showcase and harness the full potentials of women and girls in actively engaging in and reaping the benefits of national growth and development.
One of the activities that the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) has initiated to promote this theme is the #PurpleFridays campaign. Every Friday of March, namely March 1, 8, 15, and 22, everyone is enjoined to wear anything purple to signify support to gender equality and women’s empowerment. Purple is the color of feminism and women’s movements, symbolizing dignity, justice, and freedom.
By wearing purple, we can show our solidarity with the millions of women who have fought and continue to fight for their rights and aspirations. We can also express our commitment to creating a society that ensures inclusion, diversity, and social justice for all. We can also inspire other people, especially the younger generation, to join us in this advocacy and take action for positive change.
So, let us join the #PurpleFridays campaign and spread the word to our family, friends, colleagues, and communities. Let us wear purple with pride and purpose, and let us prove the capabilities of women in the new Philippines. Together, we can make a difference and make history. Happy National Women’s Month!