Throughout the 20th century, International Women's Day has become a symbol of the struggle for gender equality in all areas of life: political, economic, social and cultural.
Thanks to the demands of thousands of women, significant progress has been made in terms of gender equality, but there is still much to be done. Today, we have the perspective and story of Anna Villoslada, secretary of General Management-HRM and Administration at La Salle-URL, and first generation of women on campus.
8M | Breaking barriers, building equality
Pay inequality, gender-based violence and the glass ceiling - among others - are just some of the challenges women face today.
Globally, the gender pay gap stands at 23% and women continue to be underrepresented in leadership and management positions. Combating gender stereotypes that perpetuate inequality in the workplace is one of the first steps to achieving full equality.
From the perspective of Anna Villoslada, the first generation of women at La Salle-URL, she recalls with emotion her first contract, 42 years ago, as a moment of confidence and responsibility. "I didn't feel strange among so many men" she says, "the treatment was always excellent" Her pioneering experience has allowed her to observe firsthand the progress made in gender equality in the workplace.
Strengthening unity and solidarity
Despite progress, the pace of change is slow, and stronger measures are needed to achieve gender equality.
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Strengthening the feminist movement: It is essential to foster unity among women to continue fighting for their rights.
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Promote intersectionality: The struggle for gender equality must also consider other forms of discrimination, such as race, social class and/or sexual orientation.
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Broaden participation: Involve more people in the struggle for equality, including men, youth and people from different cultures.
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Lack of access to education and health: In many parts of the world, girls and women do not have access to education and health. This limits their opportunities and personal development.
International Women's Day is an opportunity to reflect on these challenges and renew our commitment to the fight for gender equality.
Remarks on International Women's Day
With 42 years of experience in the institution, Anna has been a witness and protagonist of the evolution of women's presence in the workplace. Today, we count on her perspective and experience over the years.
She joined La Salle-URL in 1982, a time when the Faculty of Technical Engineering in Telecommunications was a male-dominated field. Throughout her career, she has witnessed the transformation of the university, with the expansion of educational offerings and the addition of an increasing number of women to the staff.
I feel proud because I have solved things and cases entrusted to me by my superiors. The work I have done and do I like, which is important in the working world to feel fulfilled." Anna Villoslada
The situation for women has improved significantly since the beginning. Now, "The law protects much more" she says. However, she acknowledges that there is still a long way to go.
Women still have to prove more than men to occupy certain positions." Anna Villoslada
Finally, Anna launches a message to all women who today struggle to make their way in the workplace and aspire to live the much needed change that today's society pursues.
To all those women who fight every day to make their way in the working world, enjoy the work with passion and nobility, demonstrating your validity as a source of inspiration for other women". Anna Villoslada
Her story is a reminder that every step counts and that women can achieve great things in any field. This 8M, let's move forward together towards a world where women have the same opportunities as men, a world where equality is a reality for all people.
From La Salle-URL we fight every day to achieve greater inclusion and equality in society, not only in the educational ecosystem but also in the values that each student acquires during their university years. Happy International Women's Day!
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