Breathe
By Carmen Sánchez
As an activist for women's human rights, I believe it is of great importance to make visible and normalize women's human rights throughout the year and it must transcend the campaigns of 25N, 8M and the 16 Days of Activism against Gender Violence. Although these days are fundamental to raise awareness and promote concrete actions, they are not enough to address the magnitude of the problems that women face in different contexts. As a survivor of sexist and institutional violence, I affirm that guaranteeing and demanding women's human rights is a commitment that must be constantly sustained.
First, it is important to understand that information and education are powerful tools for changing realities. In communities far from large capital cities, such as the CDMX, many women are unaware of their fundamental rights. This need for information places them in a situation of greater vulnerability, since they cannot demand what they do not know belongs to them. For this reason, it is essential to seek spaces for learning, dialogue and reflection in rural or marginalized regions, where women can take ownership of their rights and strengthen their autonomy. Constant visibility also implies disobeying customs that normalize violence against women and perpetuate inequality. Talking about human rights should not be limited to commemorative dates, but should become a daily practice that encompasses educational, work, family and community spheres. This includes addressing issues such as the right to a life free of violence, access to justice, equal opportunities and respect for the dignity of every woman.
From my personal experience, I have found that institutions also play a key role in perpetuating or combating injustices. Institutional violence, manifested through indifference, re-victimization and lack of access to effective protection mechanisms, remains a significant obstacle for many women. This obstacle can be changed by promoting a culture of human rights within institutions and training their personnel with a gender perspective.
Finally, it is necessary to emphasize that women's human rights are not negotiable; they are enforceable. Normalizing and reporting on women's human rights is an act of social justice that must transcend temporary initiatives. It requires a sustained commitment to help women, especially those living in the most disadvantaged conditions, to demand and exercise their rights in full freedom and dignity. Change begins by recognizing that these rights are the basis for building more equitable and just societies for all.
The opinions expressed are the responsibility of the authors and are absolutely independent of the position and editorial line of the company. Opinion 51.
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