Reported By: Eliria Sabeti

The 8th of March was International Women’s Day, a day dedicated to recognizing women’s accomplishments and advocating for gender equality.  

This year’s theme is #BreaktheBias, and organizers aimed to encourage people to speak about observed instances of gender stereotyping and prejudice. 

Multiple studies show that women are currently confronted with a number of significant problems that disproportionately affect them. Access to education, job opportunities, gender-based violence, and gender equality to name a few. 

A rally in Tamuning at the ITC intersection in Tamuning was one way our community on Guam commemorated International Women’s Day. There were messages shared vocally and on poster boards of their support for women.  

The rally was a response to the proclamation signed on Friday, March 4 by the Guam Legislature. The subject of the proclamation was healing and fostering hope in relation to the pandemic and how it affected women, reported the Pacific News Center (PNC).  

This proclamation is a homage to carers and frontline workers’ efforts. Furthermore, the theme acknowledges the healing and hope that women of all cultures have brought throughout history.  

Michelle Sablan, alumni of UOG, a social worker at Guam Memorial Hospital, shares her insights on International Women’s day.  

“As a woman and social worker, I feel empowered to help people in the community who are in need, facing difficulties and challenges,” Sablan says.  

“They rely on me to help them better themselves and their family’s lives. I find satisfaction in helping them and bringing that love and care to the community and my patients’ lives,” Sablan expresses.  

According to PNC news, every year there is a women’s club on the island that gathers together to help identify answers, create opportunities, and assist women. 

The women’s club is made up of numerous charitable organizations that help empower local women while continuing to advocate equality as well as provide scholarships for women. 

The US Department of Labor received a fair grant, and the Guam Women’s Affairs is now working on a program directed at equal pay and fairness for women in general according to PNC News.