On the 8th of March we celebrate the International Women’s Day. A day set aside to recognize the achievements of women from political, economic to social, whilst calling for women’s rights. This presents a perfect opportunity for ARTUZ to not only recognize the contribution of female comrades to the work of the union but to also celebrate female rural teachers.
ARTUZ will set aside the month of March to cast the spotlight on the strong women who have remained resolute in the face of oppression, difficult working conditions and a collapsing education system.
In line with 2020 IWD theme I am Generation Equality: Realising Women’s Rights the women’s March campaign will bring to light the lived realities of the female rural teacher highlighting the inequalities she endures.
Through their own stories ARTUZ members will show the world their struggles, their dedication to their profession as well as their fearless fight for labour justice.
This women’s day is a special one as it marks 25 years after the Beijing Platform for action. As we reflect on state of women’s rights it is important to leave no woman behind. Equality will remain out of our reach if the struggles of some women remain invisible. ARTUZ will use this opportunity to give visibility women teaching in rural areas so that as agendas are shaped their struggles are not forgotten.
Women’s labour issues need to be at the centre of the equality discourse. It is imperative to highlight these issues and ensure that we all work together to address them.
Zimbabweans from all walks of life have that female teacher who shaped they are today. So we call on all of you to join us in celebrating female teachers as well as to support their struggles.
Source: Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ)
