Lecture Notes: Women's Movement in Chile

Introduction

• Women in Chile are actively opposing a sexist culture characterized by femicide, sexual abuse, and mistreatment.
• Origin of a viral feminist protest anthem during social unrest in 2019.
• The global impact of the movement and ongoing struggle for gender equality in Chile.

Key Issues Addressed

Sexual Abuse in Universities

• Women are speaking against sexual abuse and harassment in educational institutions.
• Law student Sofia Brito's high-profile sexual harassment case against professor Carlos Carmona.
• Challenges faced in seeking justice for sexual harassment cases.

Workplace Inequality

• Unequal treatment in the workplace, particularly in the public health sector.
• Women are underpaid and overworked; paid 35% less than men.
• Activism focuses on improving conditions for working-class women.

Feminist Protests and Strikes

• Massive feminist general strikes and demonstrations on March 8, 2018.
• Participation from women of all ages and backgrounds.
• Local collectives like Pan y Rosas are central to the movement.

Key Events and Cases

• 64 femicides tracked in 2019; high numbers of abuse reports in previous years.
• Massive protests in 2018 following the rape and murder of a toddler and gang rape of a young woman.
• University student protests demanding justice for survivors.

Impact of Feminist Anthem

• "Las Tesis" song as a response to government violence against women.
• Highlighted gender violence as a global issue
• Empowered women globally to unite against patriarchal systems.

Constitutional Change

• Push for a new, egalitarian constitution to replace the dictatorship-era constitution.
• Activism of women like Barbara Brito and Sofia towards constitutional change.
• The significance of the new constitution for recognizing equal rights for all identities.

Conclusion

• The women's movement aims for a society where all identities are equal.
• Ongoing transformation and activism are crucial for achieving gender equality.
• Pride in women's strength and determination in the fight for justice and equality.