'If we stop, the world stops .' This is the slogan supporting the strike planned for March 8, International Women's Day. It's not a strike limited to Spain; it has also been called in other countries, and it aims to highlight the importance of women's work, both in the workplace and at home.
All women are called to the general strike on March 8th, which differs from typical strikes in several ways. This strike is not about labor rights, nor is it being called by unions. Instead, it is being called by feminist platforms that have created the 8M Commission , and its aim is to strengthen women's rights to be 'free, alive, feminist, combative, and rebellious'.
Who is called to strike?
Women are called to strike , but as we've said, this isn't a normal strike. This time, it's essential that women stop working, whatever kind of work it may be, whether paid or unpaid. They must stop working in their jobs, in factories, offices, and hospitals, but also in the housework they silently perform, in caring for children and the elderly—care that a patriarchal society deems feminine, thus curtailing our rights. It's also a consumer strike, urging us to stop buying everything the market imposes on us, and a student strike, calling on those female students who seek equal rights when they enter the workforce. The goal is for the world to recognize all the work women do, and that without this work, the world grinds to a halt.
Who summons it?
The 8M Commission platform is calling for this 24-hour general strike, which is supported by many feminist groups. The unions support the strike, which is legal. Some of these unions are calling for a partial strike, a couple of hours during a shift, while others are advocating for a full-day general strike. In any case, women can completely stop working for the entire day.
What are labor rights?
During this strike, as with any other, the contract will be suspended and no social security contributions will be made for that day. The corresponding salary will be deducted from the wages, or a proportional amount for the hours worked, as well as a proportional amount from any extra pay. Furthermore, women who join the strike are not required to give their superiors advance notice, and it is illegal for their superiors to replace them, as the purpose is to highlight the importance of women's work.
Can men go on strike?
Technically, men can strike, but the 8M Commission emphasizes that if they don't go to work, the strike's purpose is partially lost, which is why they are only calling on women to participate. For those men who wish to support women in their struggle, they propose taking on any necessary work in places like hospitals, or collecting notes in class so that women can participate in the strike. They also suggest taking on household chores, childcare, or eldercare so that women can exercise their right to strike in all areas of their lives.
Why we celebrate March, 8th?
International Women's Day is celebrated on March 8th because on that day in 1909, 129 female employees of the Cotton textile factory in New York City died . The owner set fire to the factory, where the women had locked themselves inside in protest to demand labor rights. It is said that the smoke was violet, due to the burning fabrics, and that is why this color is associated with feminism.
And you, will you join the 8M strike?