Belgium to get its first women's strike at last
For the first time since its creation in 1830 the women of Belgium are set to take general strike action. The strike is being organised in Brussels on 8 March, International Women's Day, by Collecti.e.f 8 Maars.
The Francophone union CNE has agreed to file the necessary strike notification. The women want to show the world that when women strike, the world stops turning.
Similar action was staged in Spain in 2018 when a total of five million women struck bringing paralysis to the nation. In Belgium the women behind the strike hope that all women in all parts of the country as well as everybody who feels a woman will strike. No kids will be taken to school, dust will not be wiped and other household chores will not be carried out. The protesters wish to show that their place in society is essential.
A big gathering is planned for Brussels, but local initiatives too will be encouraged. Household chores will make place for workshops and debates. Women's grievances extend to poor working conditions and unsatisfactory education. They wish to receive better emotional support, oppose racism and are seeking greater protection against violence directed at women.