This year’s International Women’s Day went off without a hitch. Those G48 volunteers who were able to attend all donned purple scarves and accessories and joined a 4,000-strong (please confirm this number by comment) procession through the capital city. G48 carried its Stop Violence Against Women banner high and paraded through the streets of Seoul, circling City Hall along the Cheonggyecheon (see photos). Our purple scarves represented the flight of women; women’s ability to fly and rise above discrimination and oppression. Fortunately(?), our collective skills with the scissors proved the fact that men and women are equal, even in their incompetence!

First we gathered at EWHA Women’s High School to watch the annual award ceremony, following some cultural performances (some were entertaining, others a little confusing?). This year’s IWD award went to the Korea Council and the halmoni who have struggled against the silence, wind, rain and snow for over 800 weeks. It was an important recognition, and completely deserved. Unfortunately, it won’t reduce their struggle, but it should be seen as a source of hope.

When we reached City Hall, Angela and Joh were womanning the Sharing House stall and providing information to visitors and parade-goers alike, although they did join us for the walk up and down the stream. There were many other stalls providing resources and information on women’s rights and promoting groups working for women’s issues. The backdrop to all this was live music and performances from a range of people. It was a colorful day full of colorful people.

Please make a further contribution to women’s rights this month by coming to Sharing House to visit the halmoni and expose yourself to a proper education on the issue of sexual slavery this Sunday (March 23rd). It is time to show your support!