[3.8 여성대회 후기] “Equality for women is progress for all”

[2015 International Women’s Day in South Korea]

“Equality for women is progress for all”

     March 8th, today is International Women's Day officially appointed by UN in 1975. To support equality for women, Korean Women's Associations United holds yearly commemoration at Gwanghwamun Plaza on Sunday, March 8th. The commemoration has been held since 1987 in Korea, and also there are a lot of booths for events for citizens held by several cultural or social organizations. On this bright day, the movement called " Equality for women is progress for all" is spreading all over the country.

     On this honorable day, about 1500 people are anticipated to come over but, it seems to be much more people at Gwanghwamun Plaza. Before the ceremony, all the participants are 'purple-walking' for saying "No" to discrimination against women and letting the others know about the movement of gender equality. They start this walking event from each subway station called Jonggak, Euljiro 1-ga and Seodaemun to Gwanghwamun Plaza, the final destination. The participants of purple-walking  are wearing various costumes mostly in purple color which is the symbol of Feminism.

     During the commemoration hosted by Kwon Hae-hyo and Choi Kwang gi, some celebrities are giving short speeches for celebrating the day. Especially, Moon Jae-in, the representative of New Politics Alliance for Democracy, and Park Won-soon, the mayor of Seoul, send their supporting messages. This year, the organization called National House Manager's Cooperative is awarded the 27th women's rights movement. In addition, 6 organizations including mujigae nongsungdan are appointed as a step stone of gender equality, and there are the other 6 chosen as a stumbling block for equality of gender.

     After the commemorating ceremony, tons of Seoul citizens are taking part in various meaningful events held by cooperative organizations of equality for women. people seem to be making their weekends meaningful with experiencing the events. It does make people think more about gender equality and the slogan "Equality for women is progress for all" is really changing the stereotypes people used to have.

Min Sung Kim (KWAU voluntary reporter)
Photo by Jong Min Na