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Pinay Ngayon Highlight (Filipina
Today Highlight)
Links, information and write-ups on 
Everyday life in the Philippines and abroad.
Life experience sharing
Choices; Dilemmas; Triumphs; Hardships; Soul searching; Self-Discovery...etc.
Holiday Editorial 2004: Lighten Up Your Heart
by Bagong Pinay
You can lighten up your heart by the love you give and receive during Christmas. Another really, really good way to lighten up is to let go of emotional baggage. And to let go of the obsessions that pretend to be more important than who and what you really love. (12/01/04)
The Universal Struggle for Independence
by Annalee Garcia
If I had lived during the Philippine Revolution, given the same set of convictions as Gabriela Silang, I would have willingly fought beside her. Perhaps, that would have been a lifetime so greatly lived.
Malakas at Maganda Feature Contribution: Girls Behaving Powerfully
by Marjorie Asturias-Lochlaer
What would a woman’s
life be like if, rather
than subsuming her Self,
her talents, her genius...
she instead uses them
as God intended ...? (05/31/04)
Mothers and Love
by P.P.Daly
Commemoration of Mothers. Please send in your chilhood pictures with your mothers and/or pictures of you and your kids! (05/31/04)
Embracing the Kayumanggi in "Me"
by Annalee Garcia
Annalee shares thoughtful and humorous insights on coming of age. "My son asked to see the proofs. He smiled and said, “It’s nice MOM!” With an even bigger smile he said “You look like Lolo (grandpa) with long hair!” I didn’t really know how to react. A part of me wanted to hug him, a bigger part of me wanted to strangle him!
"...."I stared at the image before me, and asked myself who this person really was. I obviously didn’t know who she was, nor have I thought much about her lately. I spent the rest of the night tracing this woman’s life passage. I referred to her as “this woman”, as a third person, I still couldn’t quite reconcile her image with mine..."
(05/01/04)
Honoring Women, Their Voices and Their Roles in History
by P.P.Daly
A brief essay on Women's History Month and International women's Day. All over the world, women’s roles in their country’s history have been key. It is only in the last century, that women have insisted and ensured that their voices and their contributions not be erased from the annals of history. Women's Day and Women's History Month have been essential in keeping herstory within history. (03/02/04)
Christmas 2004 Letter from NewFilipina.com
by Perla Paredes Daly
Each and everyone one of us have a light within. Call it Soul, Spirit, Heart, or the Image of the Divine within us… But that light within must be uncovered, discovered in one self and in others. When we can see that there is Beauty and Truth in all people and all cultures and traditions, we are seeing the Light in others; we are seeing God in others.
Pcitures for decorating ideas and words on the spirit of Christmas... (12/06/03)
Your Own Inner Treasure
by Perla Paredes Daly
You can begin to discover your very own gems of wisdom when you begin to give less attention to the things that scare you in life. If you can face your inner demons, stare them in the eye and know them you can then walk past their glares to the glowing center of yourself and find what is right and true for you. (11/04/03)
Filipina and Singlehood: Demystifying the "Always a Bridesmaid" Cliche'
by Joann Natalia Aquino
"Each time I open my closet, hanging on the rack are the six bridesmaid dresses I had to wear at various weddings ranging from the shades of lilac, lavender, periwinkle, powder blue, navy blue, and mauve. They stare at me blankly, as though I can almost hear it whisper what others have also uttered, “She’s always a bridesmaid and never a …”... As I quickly approach the final year of my 20’s (hence next year being my big 3-0), the familiar question that seems to be uttered at family parties is, “So, when are you getting married and have babies?...” (08/11/03)
Filipino American Community Welcomes International Human Rights Lawyer, Judge Romeo Capulong
by Joann Natalia Aquino
"Judge Capulong's notable achievements include being a counsel for the late Senator Benigno Aquino; counsel for the direct action plaintiffs in the Marcos human rights litigation; as private prosecutor in the impeachment trial of former Philippine President Joseph Estrada; and counsel for human rights cases such as the Rolando Olalia murder, the Flor Contemplacion case, the Hacienda Looc land grabbing case, the Maharlika 26, the Payatas dumpsite tragedy, and the World War II comfort women. Judge Capulong is also the advocate for the high-profile cases of Jose Maria Sison, Satur Ocampo, and Crispin Beltran..." (06/24/03)
Cyberlove and Balikatan Brides
by Shanidar Cabaraban
"Long distance relationships that seemed impossible before, is no longer. We can talk to our "significant other" (which we haven't met, but significant nonetheless) through chatting for hours on end..." (06/24/03)
Revisiting 1899
by Joann Natalia Aquino
"Modest information has been provided to the people, especially to Filipinos, about the Philippine-American War of 1899. The Philippine-American War, the war between Philippine nationalists and United States troops, was one of the bloodiest military exchanges in the history of Philippine warfare. Historians estimated that around 220,000 Filipinos died during this war from war-related causes, which resulted the island of Luzon to lose 1/8 of its population during this period..." (06/24/03)
Woman of the Future
by Josie de Dios
"In the Philippines, the word "woman" is traditionally synonymous for somebody to take care of the house, do the laundry, take care of the kids, and serve the husband..." (06/24/03)
Pregnancy Scares, Kits, and Kids
by Shanidar Cabaraban
"As soon as I stepped in and saw her pale face and red eyes, I knew something was wrong. Something more catastrophic than a broken fingernail! My gaze drifted on the brown paper bag beside her. I asked what's inside the bag. She smiled, a little bravely and dropped a bomb. "I think I maybe pregnant..." (06/24/03)
Woman-to-Woman
HerStory Series: Series 3: A Conversation with Helen Zia, Author and
Community Activist
by Joann Natalia Aquino
"Helen Zia is the author of "Asian American
Dreams: The Emergence of an American People," and co-author, with
Wen Ho Lee, of "My Country Versus Me." She is an award-winning
journalist and a contributing editor to Ms. Magazine, where she was
formerly the executive editor..." (05/19/03)
Babaylan,
My Sister, Magdiwang Ka: Highlighting Filipino Women's HerStory on Women's
History Month
by Joann Natalia Aquino
"Filipina women in the span of history have bravely
played noteworthy roles in strengthening and structuring the archipelago.
Filipina women have stories ranging from making the first flag of the
Philippines, fighting in the revolution, caring for the revolutionaries,
leading her country from the strength of the power of the people, leading
to the stories of the present-day babaylans, our modern day heroes,
healing within and healing her surroundings and leading today's revolution...."
(05/19/03)
"Hi!
I Am A Mother."
by Perla Paredes Daly
Some years ago, even after having my second of three sons, I tended towards thinking of myself as a graphic designer first and then a mother. A friend's self-introduction at a gathering of women helped teach me how to place my motherhood first in life. (05/10/03)
My
Mother's Daughter
by Olivia Maristela Rebanal
Sometimes I can't really explain my relationship with my mother.Ê
I'm relieved when other women can just instinctually relate because
they share the same sort of quirky relationship with their moms.
(05/10/03)
Do Stereotypes Have Power Over You?
by Perla Paredes Daly
Stereotypes are misnotions and lies that create resentment, hate and anger. Stereotypes can be pretty powerful. Don't succumb to their power! (04/17/03)
Strong Women VS Stereotypes
by Perla Paredes Daly
Stereotypes are ways for people to make "short cuts" to understanding or knowing other people, although the stereotype may be wrong and they know it could be wrong. True wisdom replaces stereoytping... (03/16/03)
From Seattle to Manila: Our Grief is Still Not A Cry For War
by Joann Natalia Aquino
"Multitude of chanting crowds waving their signs proclaiming
"No War On Iraq" and "The World Says No to War,"
united collectively with over 600 cities across the world, including
Paris, London, Prague, Copenhagen, Athens, Rome, Cairo, Berlin, Bangkok,
Manila, and U.S. cities which include Seattle, New York, San Francisco,
Portland, and Washington DC. The February
15th march around the world was said to be the largest anti-war march
in history. All demonstrations remained peaceful and no violence was
reported... Echoes of "No War" chants and songs about peace
filled the streets during the procession. A man on the street yelled
repeatedly, "This is beautiful! This is beautiful!" declaring
the heartrending impact of the demonstration to those who were able
to witness it..." (02/26/03)
Philippines:
Health System Suffers Brain Drain
from IPS Asia-Pacific
"When will we ever be a family again?" Nelfa's five-year-old son asked
when she came home to the Philippines in April for a five-week vacation
from Britain, where she has been working as a nurse for 14 months. Fighting
back tears, Nelfa struggled to explain that despite her absence, they
were still a family and that she was working abroad only to save for
the future. "My son didn't think we were a family because I was constantly
away," she says, arguing that society's definition of a family should
have adapted by now to realities shaped by more than three decades of
overseas work, which has split millions of families..." (02/26/03)
Life
As A Lumpia
by Jessica Jamero
"I hear the omen of my full name being called as I return to the dining
room table of my middle-of-nowhere home. The table, the center of my
home both physically and socially, can be thought of in two ways. One
being a modern day scaffold where my brother and I, ok, mainly my brother,
would sit while being double teamed by my parents, who live in San Jose,
and my grandpa, with whom my brother and I have lived for about five
years now. It can also be looked at as an open book of memories that
span across my family's history. The dining room table is where my family
laughs, cries, celebrates, mourns, and deals with each other's pains
sometimes through hours of discussion, which in reality could also involve
the slamming of doors and yelling..." (02/26/03)
Through
the Director's Lens: Reclaiming the "V" word and that "V"
day with V-Day
by Joann Natalia Aquino
"Though there are over 2,000
V-Day events taking place at over 1,000 locations internationally, V-Day
Seattle 2003 was something special. To me, this show became personal.
It was like giving birth, but instead of giving birth to a child, giving
birth to creativity and the product as a result of that conception...
During the performance, I closed my eyes for a passing moment, basked
and absorbed in what was happening on stage and in the audience. I wanted
to take a mental snapshot on what was in front of me. It was a surreal
experience and a historic groundbreaking event. Even if I may do many
more of these productions in the future, I knew that moment and that
feeling could never be repeated again. It was like falling in love for
the first time. And on February 13th, the eve of the other "V"
Day, I felt that love... That night, something magical happened. A breakthrough.
Perhaps, a divine intervention. A vagina miracle. Something that was
more powerful than I had originally envisioned was born..."
(02/26/03)
Broken
Hearted vs. Broken Lusted
by Shanidar Cabaraban
"This may be familiar. There¹s just you, him and the slight chill of
the rain, falling softly, gently. There¹s the heavy feeling of dread,
knowing that this will be the last. There¹s the bittersweet pain of
ending a supposed love to last a lifetime. Then, he walks away, in the
rain, behind the shadows of the night, and you remain rooted from where
you stand and you wonder: How are you supposed to pick up the shattered
pieces of your heart strewn all over the pavement?" (02/26/03)
Let
Your Voice Be Heard: The Importance of Raising Our Political Voice
by Joann Natalia Aquino
"Democracy cannot be forced upon a society, neither is it a gift that
can be held forever. It has to be struggled hard for and defended everyday
anew," quoted by the late Heinz Galinski referring to the people's
struggle in achieving a democratic government in his country. A statement
that can also be applied today... As the 108th United States Congress
and the 58th Washington State Legislature convene to legislative session
this January, key issues are at stake affecting the Asian Pacific Americans
and immigrants and refugees in this nation...." (01/12/03)
Asia: Lessons in Hope
from IPS Asia-Pacific
"At a school on this island north of Bangkok, around 250 girls and women are busy taking English-language lessons and other courses to prepare them for the new lives they will lead once they leave its premises. The school has been a rehabilitation center for sexually abused and exploited Thai women for 42 years. Since 1999, the school, run by the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare, has taken on young women trafficked into the country from neighboring Burma, Vietnam, Laos and Yunnan province, southwest China, to work as beggars, cheap laborers, or sex workers..." (01/12/03)
Woman-to-Woman
Babaylan Series: Series 2: Interview with Marie Hilao-Enriquez, Former
Political Prisoner
by Joann Natalia Aquino
"Marie Hilao-Enriquez is a dedicated voice in
the human rights forefront in behalf of the human rights victims in
the Philippines. She has been active in the national democratic struggle
of the Filipino people since the 1970's, as a student in the University
of the Philippines. In her early 20's, Marie was imprisoned as a leader
of the nationalist youth organization, Kabataang Makabayan. Having to
survive that experience, Marie Hilao-Enriquez played a key role in the
historic class-action lawsuit against the Marcos estate, as part of
the 10,000 victims of human rights violations in the Philippines..."
(12/16/02)
Philippines:
Letters of Longing, Hope
from IPS Asia-Pacific
"I wonder why I ended up in this hot city?'' Edna, a Filipino single
mother of two, wrote in the wee hours of the morning from her tiny room
in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where she has been working as a domestic worker
for two years. In Amman, Jordan, Edna, a Filipino domestic helper, wrote
in broken English: "I am now finish my third month for suffering so
far to my children." Musings, longings, dreams for a better future,
regret, loneliness, fear, anger, and guilt run the gamut of emotions
expressed by overseas Filipino workers in handwritten letters they send
to activist groups here in the Philippines, the world's largest organized
exporter of human labor..." (12/16/02)
The
Parol, the Belen, the Angkan, and the Jolly Bearded Fellow in the Red
Suit
by Joann Natalia Aquino
"Historical accounts have
revealed that the first Christmas was celebrated in the Philippines
200 years before Magellan discovered the archipelago, around 1280 and
1320 A.D. On December 25th of the late 12th century, a Franciscan priest
from Perdenone, Italy named Father Odoric, performed the first yuletide
mass we now know as the "Misa de Gallo," on the shores of
the ancient Pangasinan in the Philippines. Father Odoric then called
the first Philippine Christmas, "Natale..." (12/16/02)
Philippines:
Radio Program, A Lifeline for Migrant Workers
from IPS Asia-Pacific
"How can I find out if the contract I am signing to work as a nurse
in Britain is valid or not?" asked a caller, who was preparing to leave
the Philippines and join its 7 million nationals who work overseas.
Another migrant worker said, "Is it a sin if my girlfriend gets an abortion?
She will be deported if her employer finds out she's pregnant. We don't
know what to do." These are the range of questions that the radio programme
³Babaeng Migrante, May Kakampi Ka² (Women Migrant, You have an Ally),
gets every Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 12 noon. The program, aired throughout
the Philippines via the AM station DWIZ, has become a lifeline of sorts
for Filipino migrant workers and their families, who are swamped with
queries as well as worries about their future and status in the very
uncertain world of overseas employment..." (12/16/02)
Philippines:
Labor Unions Left Behind by Migrants' Exodus
from IPS Asia-Pacific
"Some of Asia's most vibrant and militant labor unions are found in
the Philippines, where they have not only pushed worker's rights but
shaped political history through their role in the country's popular
uprisings. Those non-violent uprisings - the ³People Power² revolt that
toppled The Marcos dictatorship in 1986 and the 2001 one that that ousted
the Corrupt presidency of Joseph Estrada -- would not have been possible
without the tireless activism and numbers provided by worker's groups..."
(12/16/02)
One
of the Happiest Days of My Life
by Olivia Rebanal
"I woke up on September 22nd, 2000, with
a feeling of anticipation, fear, and nervousness. I was due in three
days, but I had a feeling that our little bundle of joy would pop out
sooner. For months beforehand, my husband and I were toying with ideas
for a name..." (12/16/02)
Cultural
Nurturing Practices of Mothers with their Babies
by Connie Dello Buono
"In some rural places in the Philippines,
a pregnant woman is a sign of blessings. She brings in good fortune.
Children are considered as wealth. Families filled their homes with
display of certificates or diplomas of their educated children. For
poor families, children are viewed as source of income later on when
they can earn for a living..." (11/20/02)
Human
Rights Violation in Trafficking of Persons: Trafficking of Women and
Children, A Domestic and Foreign Policy Concern
by Joann Natalia Aquino
"Trafficking of persons is a widespread human rights violation and an
illegal and exceedingly profitable recruitment, transport, or sale of
human beings for exploiting their labor. Trafficking of persons, mostly
of women and children, has become an international business that affects
all countries around the globe, and acquires vast profits for traffickers
and their mediators. Forms of trafficking of persons include: sexual
exploitation and forced prostitution, forced marriage, bonded sweatshop
labor, domestic servitude, forced labor including forced agricultural
and construction work, and other types of coerced work performed by
a human being. Trafficking of persons is a global phenomenon and a contemporary
form of human slavery..." (11/17/02)
V-Day
Seattle 2003: "Until the Violence Stops," A Benefit Production
of Eve Ensler's "The Vagina Monologues" As Part of the V-Day
Worldwide Campaign-- A Benefit Performance for the Asian and Pacific
Islander Women & Family Safety Center
Produced and Directed by Joann Natalia Aquino,
V-Day Seattle 2003, a part of the V-Day Worldwide Campaign based on
Eve Ensler's "The Vagina Monologues," is coming to Seattle,
Washington on February 13, 2003, to benefit the Asian & Pacific
Islander Women & Family Safety Center (APIWFSC).
V-Day
is a global movement to stop violence against women and girls. V-Day
is a palpable energy, a fierce catalyst that promotes creative events
to increase awareness, raise money, and revitalize the spirit of existing
anti-violence organizations. V-Day generates broader attention for the
fight to stop worldwide violence against women and girls including rape,
battery, incest, female genital mutilation (FGM), and sexual slavery.
V-Day provides funding to create and nurture innovative programs to
stop the violence. (11/10/02)
Philippines
Baby Feeding Practices
by Connie Dello Buono
"What are the beliefs in feeding the infant/toddlers?
What are the parents' attitudes toward it? What are some religious and
economic differences? What type of food is initially introduced to the
baby?.." (11/01/02)
Woman-to-Woman
Babaylan Series: Series 1: Interview with Philippine Congresswoman Liza
Maza
by Joann Natalia Aquino
"Congresswoman Liza Maza of Bayan Muna party is a member of the Philippines
House of Representatives. Congresswoman Maza is also a crusader and
a steadfast advocate for women and people’s rights. Her legislative
work includes advocating for women’s issues, increasing the Philippines'
national hourly wage, and improving worker’s benefits. Liza Maza
also served as the Secretary General of GABRIELA, a national alliance
of women’s organizations, which spearheaded the global Purple Rose
Campaign, a campaign to expose and fight the trafficking of Filipina
women and children..." (11/01/02)
Filipino Americans in History: From the Manila Men, to the Alaskeros, to Miss America
by Joann Natalia Aquino
"Unknown to many people, Filipino American history began on 1587 when the "Luzones Indios" crewmembers in the Spanish galleon Nuestra Senora de Buena Esperanza anchored off the coast of the present day Morro Bay, California. Followed by in 1763, Filipinos who identified themselves as the "Manila Men," jumped off the Spanish galleons along the Louisiana coast to escape the Spanish brutalities during the galleon trade era. The "Manila Men" then settled in the marshland of St. Malo, a village on the bayous of what is now New Orleans, Louisiana...." (10/21/02)
Lessons
in Adversity
by Vernie Espanola
"I have learned a lot, perhaps I even emerge into a completely different
person. Adversity had helped me to be strong when the storm would come
again. Adversity taught me to make tough choices, I have taken risk,
I learned from those countless mistakes. It doesn¹t happen overnight,
it took such a long time. It was a good fight. I had over come what
is to overcome of a shady past. Adversity, come to think of it: broadens
one¹s understanding, of learning to accept the things you can no longer
change. When it comes, the only left to do is to hope, to forgive, to
move on, and make something out of it." (10/21/02)
Domestic
Violence in the Asian Pacific Islander (API) Community
by Joann Natalia Aquino
"Domestic violence is a serious crime and does not discriminate. It
happens in every type of relationship. It happens to people of every
race and economic background. It occurs every minute of each day. It
happens to children, teenagers, and adults, though women are most commonly
the victims of violence. Domestic violence cuts across all lines of
ethnicity, nationality, language, culture, economics, sexual orientation,
physical ability, education level, and religion, and affects women and
children from all walks of life..." (10/11/02)
"I
Just Pray" -- Wives of Filipino Seafarers Close Their Eyes to Their
Husbands' Casual Sex Behavior While at Sea.
from IPS-Asia Pacific
"When he comes home for a two-to-three-month holiday after being away
at sea for months, Esper is not sure whether it is safe to be intimate
with him. At the back of her mind, she says, is the possibility that
her husband may have contracted a sexually-transmitted disease (STD)
or worse, HIV, from sexual relations in some overseas port. Studies
have shown that seafarers -- there are 500,000 registered Filipino seafarers
and one in every five seafarers in the world are Filipino -- are among
the migrant workers whose ''girl-in-every-port'' practice makes them
vulnerable to HIV/AIDS, and passing it on to their partners..."
(10/08/02)
"My Baby Saved My Life" -- A Story About Bulimia and Pregnancy
by Fatima Catangay
"I convinced myself it was normal to throw up. I blamed it on the morning
sickness. Right after I throw up, I would look in the mirror and say
to myself, "what kind of mother am I to be doing this to myself and
my child?" The tremendous amount of guilt I felt was haunting,
but as many of those who have dealt with eating disorders know, guilt
can trigger or intensify bad habits. That's exactly what happened to
me...I came down with a sore throat of which progressed to a cold. My
glands became so swollen especially behind my ears and along my jaw.
My scalp became very dry and flaky. My hair started thinning out a little
and I was growing very pale. I was sick and my baby was also sick."
(10/08/02)
"The
Debut" Makes Its Premiere in New York City
by Christina DeHaven
"A few years ago I had a rare opportunity to work
on a special film called "The Debut," a coming-of-age story
about a Filipino family living and learning in the U.S. “The Debut”
is a full-length 35mm film, directed by Gene Cajayon, a Filipino-American
director from the Los Angeles area. The story is based on the real-life
issues experienced by many Fil-Am youth, learning how to balance their
all-American daily lives with the Filipino-centric family customs that
await them at home."
(10/08/02)
Philippines:
Overseas Employment is a Boon to Many, a Bane to Some
from IPS-Asia Pacific
"There are 500,000 registered seafarers in the country, accounting for
20 percent of all the world's seafarers. The Philippines is the second
largest labor exporter, with an average of 800,000 workers leaving for
overseas work every year. And though foreign remittances from overseas
workers have been a consistent and major contributor to the country's
coffers, long separation due to overseas employment has been identified
as one major factor for the breakdown of the Filipino family structure."
(09/16/02)
Eternal
Rest, Remembering September 11: Where Do We Go From Here?
by Joann Natalia Aquino
"September 11 was about people. Right now, it is
still about people. In the end, that is all that really matters... What
did we learn from this? I learned that each moment is sacred. Each minute
is important. Our choices in life affects us all, hence, we are all
interconnected. Though I may not know you, your choices affect my life,
and vice-versa. And though nothing is usual anymore, and even if nothing
is certain as we seek normalcy in life, the possibilities are still
endless. Endless possibilities, I will always believe in that. That
I can trust on..." (09/11/02)
Filipina-
Reyna Ng Tahanan (Queen of the Home), A Folklore
by Charity Doyl
"To this day, the Philippines is the only country wherein women are
treated as equals and with much respect. Many Filipino men's ideal standard
is to work hard -so as their wives can stay at home, manage the household
affairs, nurture the children and is affectionately dubbed the "Reyna
Ng Tahanan." (09/09/02)
Bayanihan, The Spirit of Community
by Joann Natalia Aquino
"In the spirit of community, when one is hurting, everyone feels the pain. The connection that exists amongst individuals is so powerful; sometimes no words are needed to express the loss, sorrow, hurt, fear, disappointments, happiness, and other forms of emotions humans feel. This is the moral fiber of bayanihan, the spirit of community and the spirit of humanity..."
(08/19/02)
From South Korea: Adapt, Adjust, Accept
from IPS Asia-Pacific
"Filipino women who go to South Korea to marry suffer from a culture shock, but decide to stay on and endure rural life as farmers' wives... Dressed in a traditional Korean costume, 33-year-old Jacqueline looked every bit like the merry housewife as she sang at a festival in Seosan village in Chungnam province, some 100 km south of the South Korean capital.
Married to Korean farmer Kim Kang-Ho in 1996, the Filipino woman has become the pride of her village for her diligence and courtesy, and how she has adjusted to life in this country..." (08/12/02)
From
Japan: At Home in a Foreign Land
from IPS Asia-Pacific
"For tens of thousands of foreign workers in Japan, settling in is a
struggle. But a Filipina manages to fit into the society and find happiness
in her marriage, writes Suvendrini Kakuchi. - Maria, the 31-year-old
Filipino wife of a Japanese truck driver, says her husband's country
will be her home until she dies..." (08/12/02)
(A
Trilogy About Feng Shui): Mr. In-Between, Mountains & Screws, and Change
and Cats
by Gloria Igaya
"I never put much stock in feng shui before. Someone could tell me this
certain house had good feng shui and that certain house had bad one
and I would believe him. What did I know? These and more statements
from the book ³Dumb Feng Shui² could best describe what my knowledge
of feng shui was..." (08/12/02)
Summer
in Seattle
by Joann Natalia Aquino
"Many of us usually plan to get away on a
well-deserved vacation every summer.
I know as often as I can, I try to escape the hustle of the town I live
in, to be in a hustle on a different town, but truly, it’s just
to make me remember the magic and spark this city has to offer. Permit
me to take you to a trip to a summer memory lane in Seattle, Washington.
We all have our favorite summer memories of our much-loved cities. Mine
in particular is about the city of Seattle...." (08/12/02)
New
York Gathering In Memory of Food Writer Doreen Fernandez
by Tricia J. Capistrano
"In New York, last July 2, a gathering celebrating the life of Doreen
Fernandez, food writer, cultural historian, and teacher was held at
Cendrillon, a Filipino restaurant located in the SoHo area... Doreen
Fernandez passed away at the New York Presbyterian Hospital in New York
City last June 24. She had suffered a severe bout of double pneumonia..."
(08/12/02)
Freedom
and Its Worth: "One Nation Under God, Indivisible, With Liberty
and Justice For All" (?)
by Joann Natalia Aquino
" Freedom means different things to different
people. The areas of freedom and independence one strives for in their
life differ according to the eye of the beholder... Countless notable
deep-thinkers, realists and idealists, writers, artists, and politicians
have deliberated the meaning of freedom throughout the course of history.
Yet, each person came up with their own meaning. Freedom cannot be justified
and defined fully, except through an analysis of the limitations on
human action and its boundaries. Freedom can only be described by the
means of the restrictions on freedom itself..." (06/12/02)
"The Personal Is Political": Protecting Our Civil Liberties In A Time of Crises
by Joann Natalia Aquino
"While the nation continues to mourn the losses of September 11th, we
must also begin to mend the damage done to our civil liberties since
this tragedy. With a collective spirit, we must call on our nation¹s
leaders to ensure that not only is our security assured, but that our
civil liberties are also secured and our freedom inviolable... If we¹ve
learned anything from history, it is that good always prevails over
evil. This, we can rest assured on..." (Republished from Filipino American
Herald) (03/18/02)
March
is Women's History Month: Trafficking of Persons' Bill Made History
In Washington
by Joann Natalia Aquino
"... Women¹s History Month is observed globally each March, commemorating
women¹s rights, suffrage, and peace movements. Also, every March 8th,
the International Women¹s Day has been celebrated annually around the
world for over ninety years... In Washington State, a historic action
affecting women¹s rights took place when Washington Governor Locke approved
and signed Substitute House Bill 2381 into law last March 12, 2002,
relating to the trafficking of persons..." (Republished from
Filipino American Herald) (03/18/02)
1899: Memories of a "Forgotten" War
by Christina DeHaven
"... Using captivating reenactments and graphic historical photographs, "Memories of a Forgotten War" is an international collaboration among Manila and Pittsburgh film and media artists... Shot on location in Luzon and Mindanao, the film is emotionally raw and visually beautiful. Local amateur actors were used to re-enact scenes of war violence on locations where the original violence took place, allowing the Filipinos to act out their own history." (03/18/02)
Ang Bahay Kubo Ni Ireland
by Lory Crowder
"... David and I decided to bring his parents out to the Filipino restaurant because they had never eaten at such a place, never mind had any knowledge that there was one in Dublin. We looked in the yellow pages under "Asian restaurants," and the first listing we came across was Bahay Kubo. I would not have thought for a minute that there would be such a restaurant... I know that if I am ever in Ireland again, I can always visit Bahay Kubo and get a taste of some good home cooking from the motherland." (03/18/02)
Non-Alcoholic
Me
by Elen Farkas
"... Whenever my husband's friends invite us for a get-together, I always
see everybody drinking beer. As for me, you can find me happily drinking
my apple juice. Everybody asks "Don't you think Apfelsaft is boring
already?" and everybody wonders "You never hang out in the Philippines?"
And each time they ask me these questions I just say, "It's just not
my thing. I feel safe in my carbonated apple juice." Then, everybody
shuts up." (03/18/02)
V
Monologues, VDAY, Anti-Violence in Manila
Press Release from NVC
V for Vagina, Victory, Valentines and VDay at Folk Arts Theatre!!! The
New Voice Company - successful producers of "The Vagina Monologues"
in the Philippines, Hong Kong and Singapore - are set to rock Manila
with a huge VDAY celebration event at the Tanghalang Francisco Balagtas
(Folk Arts Theatre) on February 23, 2002 (02/01/02)
We
Will Never Forget September 11
by Olivia Rebanal
"When David and I embraced, after only an hour and a half
of uncertainty and vulnerability, we felt momentarily safe. At the very
least, we were alive and together. Only when I felt his arms around
me did I allow myself to cry. My tears spoke of all my fear - fear for
myself and how close I had been to destruction, fear for my friend who
had been struck by glass and flames, fear for the others who must have
been in the towers when the planes struck, fear for the lives of everyone
who had to move on from this point..." (11/21/01)
newFilipina.com
as Performance Art
by Perla Daly, Editor
"A recent opportunity to speak at a workshop was not only a wonderful
and rare opportunity for me to meet 5 other talented and stimulating
women in the arts, but it was also a surprising chance for me to explore
and express what the work of NewFilipina.com means to me as a project
within my life's purpose." (11/01/01)
Honoring
Filipino American Veterans
by Joann Natalia Aquino
"During the bleak years of World War II, the soldiers of the Philippine
Commonwealth Army bestowed a spark of hope in the Pacific, as they fought
alongside United States and Allied forces for four extensive years to
defend and reclaim the Philippine Islands throughout this war... Noble
and courageous Filipino soldiers fought, suffered, and died in the bloody
battles of World War II, defending the besieged Bataan and Corregidor,
as thousands of Filipino prisoners of war suffered in the legendary
Bataan Death March and years of captivity under brutal conditions..."
(11/17/01)
Multi-Tasking
in A Changing World
by Perla Daly, Editor
This editorial/newsletter comes during somber times, still only 3 weeks
after September 11, 2001, the day when terrorism hit the U.S. home front
for the first time in history. I've been hit by waves of grief and anger,
and by pride and hope for people. We cannot doubt that each of us has
been affected in one way or another by the events of that day. Today,
I am writing to you as a Filipina, a friend, a mother, a woman. Women,
I am urging you to discover and maximize your roles in our rapidly changing
world. Men, I am calling upon you to support the women you love and
to support all women around the world. Let us not return to the petty
ways of our previous selves. Click the above title to read complete
editorial. You can also post your reactions in the message board link
provided. (10/01/01)
It's
Still "In the Heart": Remembering the Journey of Carlos Bulosan
by Joann Natalia Aquino
"Filipino Immigrant. Writer. Poet. Literary Phenomenon. Radical
Labor Organizer. Activist. Revolutionist. Advocate. Visionary Extraordinaire.
Carlos Bulosan left a lasting impression in the history of Filipinos
in America today. It is the likes of him that paved the way and unlocked
the key for a breakthrough given to today's generations in America.
This is his story in history…" This article also explores
the past experiences of Filipinos immigrating to America, including
their challenges with prejudice and discrimination. (06/20/01)
"We
Will Not Forget": Reflections of the Domestic Violence Candlelight
Vigil
by Joann Natalia Aquino
"Six years ago, in March 1995, Phoebe Dizon, Veronica Laureta,
Susana Remerata Blackwell, and her unborn child, Baby Kristine, were
killed inside the King County Courthouse in Seattle, Washington, by
Susana's estranged husband. This case broke the silence around domestic
violence in the Filipino and other Asian and Pacific Islander (API)
communities… Each year, the Asian & Pacific Islander Women
and Family Safety Center (APIWFSC) has sponsored the candlelight vigil
to come together as a community, to honor and remember the lives touched
by domestic violence. The purpose of the candlelight vigil is to break
the silence by having the community groups endorse the vigil and attend
the event, to remember the victims and survivors of domestic violence,
and to speak out for "safety, peace, and justice for all abused
women and children." (06/20/01)
"The
Wind Beneath My Wings": Anatomy of a Mother-Daughter Relationship
by Joann Natalia Aquino
"When children are still young, a mother's role to her child seems
clearly defined. She is the teacher, the provider, the advocate, the
doctor, the chef, the chauffer, the detective, the peacemaker, and the
list continues on. Interestingly enough, as the child grows through
the tumultuous adolescent years, sometimes out of defiance, the role
of a mother in their life grows faint. This is particularly evident
in a mother-daughter relationship. Nevertheless, as children age, they
start to realize the weight of a mother's love and the intense depth
of her commitment in a child's life, regardless how old or young they
may be or the number of children in her family. No other relationship
we develop can ever replace and impact us the same way…" This
article explores the amazing bond and the "love-hate" relationship
between a mother and a daughter… (06/20/01)
FAQs
about Pinayism
by Allyson Tintiangco
Pinayism is a new and growing movement. A term that may be used to define
a Filipina type of womanism or feminism. Explore the meaning with Dr.
Allyson Tintiangco. And join the forum to discuss it further.
(06/01/00)
On
Motherhood
by Connie dello Bueno
Connie Dello Buono, author of the book Birthing Ways, Healing Ways,
talks about mothering with awareness and about motherhood from the perspective
of the old and the new. Two articles: Owning Our Bodies, and Preconception.
(05/31/00)
The
Accidental Feminist
by Perla Daly
Feminism...womanism...pinayism...pro-woman...F-word...? Today's Filipinas
can define their own kind of feminism and call it what they want.
(04/17/00)
Peeling the Layers Series: A "Work-In-Progress"
Towards the Warriors Journey of Self-Discovery
by Joann Natalia Aquino
"...Before
we can be effective outside and attempt to change the world, our society,
our community, our organizations, our homes, our relationships; we need
to first look within our self and recognize what work needs to be done,
therefore acknowledge that the change needs to start from within...
Metaphorically speaking, akin to the interior of an onion, peeling each
layer will eventually lead us to the core, the center, the heart of
our purpose...." This series
includes collections in areas that may help us with our own self-discovery,
and examples that may guide us in the path of our own journey…
The
Real "Survivors": Breast Cancer Consciousness
by Joann Natalia Aquino
"One does not have to endure the wilderness of the Australian outback
to be called a "survivor." Nonetheless, the real "survivors"
are truly the individuals and their families that challenged diseases,
such as breast cancer, and overcame the obstacles together...
Breast cancer does affect the Filipino/Asian
and Pacific Islander community. It affects me, and it also affects you,
one way or another. As individuals, we were probably touched and transformed
with the issue of cancer, either from our own experience, our family,
close friends, and/or other loved-ones. Nevertheless, it is a disease
that people can survive and have survived in the past, and we have women
and men in our community who can tell you their own personal testimony
and how they fought to live."
Giving
Up the Silence: Series on Depression and Mental Illness
Stories of Filipinas and Helpful Resources
No one in our families likes to talk about family who suffer from depression
or mental illness. They are skeletons in the closet. But talking about
our experiences is the starting point for healing for many of us. We
are sharing the stories of 3 to 4 women who are on their path of healing.
You may find that their stories will help you. Also find links, and
a message board with valuable added contacts, support groups and resources!
(04/21/00)
Romancing
the Kulintang
by Lizae Reyes
A Filipina discovers Kulintang dance and music and in the process discovers
more about herself.
Isla:
A Pilipina Perspective: Being Single
column by Wilma Consul
Single Filipinas can be comfortable being single despite Filipinos'
traditional attitudes towards the status quo of being married.
Teodora
Alonso: A glimpse of the mother of a hero
from Mothers Magazine of Metro Manila, May 1999
Challenge
to All Homemakers
by Ameling Daez of Metro Manila, May 1999
The
Naming of My Child
Short Story by Eilieen
Tabios, U.S.A., May 1999
From
a Daughter: Remembering Inay
A visitor to the site shares her feelings about her mom.
Sexual
Harassment: My Story
by Cristina Peczon, Philippines, April 1999
The
Control Factor of Sexual Harassment
by BagongPinay , April 1999
Reimagining
Filipino Identity
by Leny Strobel, Pinay Ngayon March 1999
One woman's journey of moving away from colonial mentalities.
Where
the Sun Always Shine
by Edessa Ramos, PinayNgayon March 1999
A Filipina in Switzerland learns that personal
isolation is something that we all have the power to overcome.
Searching
for Lost Idealism
by M.P. Ledesma, July 1998
"Filipina"
and Filipinas on the Internet
Compiled by Perla Daly, June 1998
Women
and Media
(a Philippine perspective)
by Geejay Arriola, Aug. 1998
Need
to Represent
(a U.S. perspective)
by Sheelagh Cabalda, 1998
Serving
up Justice 
by Wilma Consul, Nov. 1998
Entrepreneur Irma Bautista bounces back from a fatal abusive marriage
3 Sigaw
ng Mutya (Cry of the Muse)
Links, information and write-ups on:
Clemencia Lopez
web page published by Jim Zwick
In 1902, a Filipina of intelligence, courage, articulateness, and love for family and country speaks to women in the United States of Philippine women's equality and our struggle for independence.
Here is are the words of an extraordinary woman who lived in the Philippines and spoke up for her country more than a century ago.
We can learn much from her words. (08/26/03)
From
Hong Kong: Escape From Hell
from IPS Asia-Pacific
"A Filipina who escaped from a white slavery syndicate talks about the
horrors she went through. She was shaking like a leaf as she told her
story, but Anna (not her real name) agreed to speak about it to spare
other Filipino women in Hong Kong and elsewhere the horrors she went
through..." (08/12/02)
From
Japan: Life in a Prison Cell
from IPS Asia-Pacific
"A Filipina entertainer languishes in jail for a crime she says she
did not commit. As Suvendrini Kakuchi writes, she is one of the countless
migrant workers in Japan who bear the brunt of an unjust system. Rosal
Manalili was 14 when she left the Philippines for Japan in 1986, embarking
on her first overseas trip that she hoped would help her to become a
professional singer... But things did not turn out that way."
(08/12/02)
Seven
years after FlorŠ Conditions of Overseas Filipino Workers Worsen
by Hetty Alcuitas for IBON Foundation Inc.
"Seven years ago, the nation and international community was gripped
by the unjust imprisonment and hanging of Filipina maid Flor Contemplacion
in Singapore. Her case was seen as typical of the abuse and neglect
that the estimated seven to eight million overseas Filipino workers
(OFWs) face on a daily basis..." (06/01/02)
U.S.
Military Intervention in the Philippines
by Dr. Roland Simbulan
Know more about the implications of U.S. forces in the Philippines.
(05/03/02)
Basilan
Women, Warriors for Peace
by Joanna Castro
University of the Philippines Forum, online. During a forum organized
by the Philippine Association of University Women (PAUW)-UP to celebrate
National Women¹s Month, the plight of the women in Basilan was given
importance. Toughened by poverty and strengthened by their faith, two
women from Basilan shared with the audience their views on the present
situation of women and children in Basilan caught in the raging war
between Moslems and Christians. They also discussed the role of women
in the peace and development efforts in war-torn Mindanao. (05/03/02)
Focus
On Women's Rights and Issues (from Third World Network)
Many women organizations have made remarkable efforts to be heard in
a society equal to men's voices. Today, through the unwavering and determined
efforts of women movements and the advocacy of women's rights, women's
voices are finally being heard, making this society more conscious of
the needs and rights of women in all areas of the world. Though many
women groups have intensively lobbied for the rights of women focusing
on equal access, gender issues, sexuality, health, education, human
rights and women's role in national development, the fight still continues
on. (03/01/02)
Learn
More About the Issue of Trafficking and Exploitation of Women
Trafficking of women and girls for the purpose of sexual exploitation
in the form of prostitution, pornography, escort services, forced marriages,
sweatshop labor, domestic servitude, and other forms of exploitation,
is a growing phenomenon around the world. In search for a better life,
and often as a result of poverty and limited work opportunities, young
women leave their homeland to look for work in other countries. In some
circumstances, the women become prey to traffickers who promise them
work, but instead end up living in slave-like conditions and become
a product of trafficking and exploitation. Please read the following
articles to learn more about this issue:
"Facts/Statistics on Trafficking and Prostitution on Asia and Pacific"
from Coalition Against Trafficking of Women-Asia Pacific, "Campaign
Against the Trafficking of Women and Girls" from Human Rights Watch,
"Trafficking
of Women and Children: The U.S. and International Response" from
U.S. Dept. of State and International Information Programs, and
Resource List on Trafficking of Women and Children" from GlobalMarch.org.
(02/12/02)
Mail
Order Brides
a research paper by MaryAnn Szyskowski, Jan 1999
Excerpt: “These women should be acknowledged for their efforts
and more support from the Filipino-American community should be rendered.
”
 
E-mail
from American Men about Mail-Order-Brides (MOBs)
by BagongPinay, Nov 1998
Bagong Pinay features e-mail that talks about the myths, romanticization
and sometimes misguided stereotypes of Filipina wives come by mail.
Let
all women's voices be heard!
Read the following articles about the issues, tasks, and challenges
these women are taking to strive for justice, freedom, and peace for
others:
"Women
Breaking Away From Traditions" from AWORC,
"Women
Work to End Armed Conflict" from PBSB Bulletin,
"Women
In Mindanao: Challenging Roles In War Or Peace" from CyberDyaryo,
"Moro
Women In New York" of Philippine Muslim's Association,
"Filipino
Women and Sexual Violence: Speaking Out and Providing Services"
from Centre for Philippine Concerns-Australia,
"Stop
Sex Trafficking of Filipino Women and Children" from GABRIELA,
and
"Slavery
and Trafficking" from Women's Human Rights Resources.
Women
of Vision in Action
This organization supports and connects emerging and established women
leaders who believe vision combined with spirit-based action are the
ingredients for creating positive change in the world and who are actively
demonstrating that belief by embracing the vision, taking the action
and being the change they wish to see in the world. (08/09/01)
Community
Organizing & Advocacy Alerts and Awareness
Visit the New Filipina/ Bagong Pinay's Community Organizing & Advocacy
Discussion Forum to read, be informed, gain better understanding, and/or
to post any information about issues and/or challenges relating to the
Filipino diaspora around the world.
Discussion in the Bagong Pinay MagsalitaKa
(Speak Out) Section.
 
Info
About Globalization
Various links and articles.
Globalization will indeed change the world. But is it only the developed
countries that will benefit? What will happen to underdeveloped countries
such as those in the middle-east,africa, south america, southeast asia(incl.
the Philippines)? Read these resources and find out. Educate yourself!
(08/01/01)
IMF
and Globalization
by L. Crowder and A. Vender
Heard about the deal on the IMF and globalization? What has Lory Crowder
of NewFilipina found out when she went to Washington, D.C. to protest?
How does globalization affect Filipino women and children in the Philippines?
What can we do about it ourselves. Check these 2 articles out.
(06/01/00)
LILA
Pilipina
by M. Evelina Galang
The Filipino women who were forced into service as "comfort women"
for the Japanese soldiers of WW II are bravely organizing to seek justice.
Read info on their story and send in your mail in support of their cause.
(06/01/00)
Simply
Isis
by Susanna George
Isis International takes various feminist paths in its journey from
Rome to Manila. (02/29/00)
Sexual
Harassment of Women of Color
by Sabrina Margarita Alcantara-Tan, U.S.A., April
1999
Philippine
Women's Movement
Link to Isis Article, Sept. 1998
New
Filipina Online Discussion Forum About the Issue of Domestic Violence
and Sexual Assault on Women & Children In Our Community.
We encourage you to share your information, resources,
links, and experiences on this topic.
Discussion in the Bagong Pinay MagsalitaKa
(Speak Out) Section.
Working
Together Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault for Women and
Children; Resources and Information Available on the Internet:
A Woman is Beaten Every 9 Seconds... And Every
2 Minutes, A Woman is Raped...
Domestic
violence doesn’t discriminate. It happens in every type of
relationship. It happens to people of every race and economic background.
It happens to teens and adults. It happens every minute of every day.
Domestic
violence cuts across all
lines of ethnicity, nationality, language, culture, economics, sexual
orientation, physical ability, education level, and religion, and affects
women and children from all walks of life. Racism, sexism, ableism,
homophobia and other forms of oppression can impact how people experience
violence in their lives and how they will reach out to get help. Types
of abuse include: Physical: slapping, pushing, hitting, kicking,
biting, etc; Emotional:
name-calling, putting down, insults, etc.; Sexual: being forced into
sexual contact; Threats: "If you...I'll kill you!"; Intimidation:
gestures, looks, smashing things; Isolation: being kept from seeing
or talking to others, not allowed to go out; and Economic: being given
an allowance, not allowed to have a job, etc.
Sexual assault or rape is a violent crime, not a sexual
act.
Facts about sexual assault: 1) One
of every four reported rapes take place in a
public area or in a parking garage. (Violence Against Women, Bureau
of Justice Statistics, U.S. Dept. of Justice, 1994.) 2) 31% of female
victims reported that the offender was a stranger. (Violence against
Women, Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Dept. of Justice, 1994.) 3)
An overwhelming majority of rape service agencies believe that public
education about rape, and expanded counseling and advocacy services
for rape victims would be effective in increasing the willingness of
victims to report rapes to the police. (Rape in America, 1992, National
Victim Center with Crime Victims Research and Treatment Center.) 4)
Only 37% of all rapes are reported to the police. U.S. Justice Department
statistics are even lower, with only 26% of all rapes or attempted rapes
being reported to law enforcement officials. 5) Somewhere in America,
a woman is raped every 2 minutes. (National Crime Victimization Survey.
Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice, 1996.) 6)
Approximately 28% of victims of sexual violence are raped by their husbands
or boyfriends, 35% by acquaintances, and 5% by other relatives. (Violence
against Women, Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Dept. of Justice,
1994.) 7) 68% of rapes occur between the hours of 6 p.m. and 6 a.m.
(Violence against Women, Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Dept. of
Justice, 1994.) 8) According to the Justice Department, one in two rape
victims are under age 18; one in six are under age 12. (Child Rape Victims,
1992. U.S. Department of Justice.)
The following are resources and information
about domestic violence and sexual assault available on the internet:
- V-Day:
Until the Violence Stops
V-Day is a global movement to stop violence against women and girls.
V-Day is a palpable energy, a fierce catalyst that promotes creative
events to increase awareness, raise money, and revitalize the spirit
of existing anti-violence organizations. V-Day generates broader attention
for the fight to stop worldwide violence against women and girls including
rape, battery, incest, female genital mutilation (FGM), and sexual
slavery. V-Day provides funding to create and nurture innovative programs
to stop the violence.
- National
Domestic Violence Hotline: Toll-free
1-800-799-7233
Open year-round, trained staff provide counseling and referral services
to all, free of charge. The staff speaks English and Spanish, and
translators are available for 129 other languages. They offer crisis
intervention, referrals to domestic violence and other emergency shelters
and programs, information and support, and can link callers to a nationwide
database on domestic violence. They advise on shelters, advocacy and
assistance, and social services programs.
- Battered
Immigrant Women
In 1990, the Family Violence Prevention Fund, AYUDA, Inc.,
and the National Immigration Project of the National Lawyers Guild
began working together to plan the first national conference for the
rights of immigrant and refugee women. Entitled "Dreams Lost,
Dreams Found: Women Organizing for Justice," this conference
was sponsored by the Northern California Coalition for Immigrant Rights.
In 1994, these three agencies co-founded the National Network on Behalf
of Battered Immigrant Women (the Network) because of the need for
a national coordinated advocacy effort aimed at removing the numerous
barriers battered immigrant and children face when they attempt to
leave abusive relationships.
- DV Resources.org
What is Domestic Violence? A power and control issue. It is
physically or emotionally controlling behavior that restricts the
activity and independence of another individual. It can include physical,
sexual and psychological attacks, and economic control. Domestic violence
affects persons of all cultures, religions, ages, sexual orientations,
educational backgrounds, and income levels. The majority of victims
are women, but men can be victims of domestic violence too. Learn
more about the issue today.
- Asian
& Pacific Islander Women's Health
Based in San Francisco, CA, Asian & Pacific Islander
American Health Forum is a national advocacy organization dedicated
to promoting
policy, program, and research efforts for the improvement of health
status of all Asian American and Pacific Islander communities.
- A
Safe Place: Reading on Violence and Related Issues
A Safe Place was founded in 1976 to prevent and eliminate
domestic violence. We are a non-profit organization that provides
free shelter and support services for those who need them. Domestic
violence is not an easy thing to talk about, but it’s something
that is happening to someone you know right now. Domestic violence
is a pattern of behavior used by one person in a relationship to control
the other. One out of two homes in America is the scene of one type
or another of relationship violence at least once a year. Anyone can
be a victim of domestic violence—it doesn’t discriminate.
It doesn’t take into account your age, your gender, or your race.
It doesn’t matter how much money you have. It doesn’t matter
how well educated you are.A Safe Place is more than a shelter. It
is a first step for victims of domestic abuse who want to regain control
over their lives.
- Understanding
the Complexities of Violence Against Women
We hope to create a respectful space for discussion
and debate concerning some of the difficult issues that we face in
responding to violence against women. Violence against women has a
huge impact on the lives of women and their children worldwide. Some
features of the violence and women's experiences of it are shared.
However, other factors may vary significantly in different settings
and contexts. For instance, the meaning of violence in the lives of
women and the remedies available to them to deal with it may be profoundly
shaped by factors such as culture, inequality and the impact of colonisation.
- Praxis
International
Praxis was organized in 1996 by activists in the battered
women's movement to work with other social change activists seeking
to end violence against women. Praxis helps advocacy organizations
and inter-agency collaborations analyze how institutions of social
control can be challenged to adopt practices and philosophical approaches
that promote autonomy, integrity and safety for women and their children.
- National
Collaborative for Asian American Women's Health Organization
The National Asian Women's Health Organization was founded
in 1993 to serve as a catalyst for a powerful advocacy movement that
would inspire individuals to become active players in the political
decision-making that impacted their daily lives. Since then, NAWHO
has identified, redefined, and elevated the Asian American woman's
cultural role as a "change agent", the community's key avenue
to wellness. We have established programs focused
primarily on the education and empowerment of Asian American women,
believing that health promotion, disease prevention, and policy improvement
efforts could better involve and reach the men, women, and children
of Asian American communities.
- Asian Task Force
Against Domestic Violence
The mission of the Asian Task Force Against Domestic Violence is to
eliminate family violence and to strengthen Asian families and communities.
Founded in 1987, the Task Force represents a group of diverse Asian
community leaders concerned about the incidence of domestic violence
in Asian communities. Initially, the Task Force worked to educate
Asian communities and battered women's service providers and develop
culturally appropriate resources for battered Asian women. In 1994,
the Task Force expanded its services when it opened the first battered
women's shelter in New England specifically for Asian women.
- Asian
& Pacific Islander Institute on Domestic Violence
The Asian & Pacific Islander Institute on Domestic
Violence's Mission is to eliminate domestic
violence in Asian & Pacific Islander communities by increasing
awareness about the extent and depth of the problem; making culturally
specific issues visible; strengthening community models of prevention
and intervention; identifying and expanding resources; informing and
promoting research and policy; and deepening our understanding and
analyses of the issues surrounding violence against women.
- Asian Women United
of Minnesota (AWUM)
Asian Women United of Minnesota (AWUM) is a community-based, nonprofit
organization committed to ending violence against Asian women and
children, empowering Asian women and girls, and building stronger
and safer communities.
- Asian
& Pacific Islander Domestic Violence Resources
Domestic violence resources relevant to the Asian & Pacific Islander
communities.
- Ashiana:
Asian Women's Refuge
Ashiana is an Asian women's refuge, located in South Yorkshire, UK.
Run by women who understand the cultural background and specific needs
of Asian women, we offer advice, support and safe accommodation to
women and children fleeing violence and abuse in the home.We understand
that violence in the home takes many forms, mental, physical, emotional,
and sexual abuse and we believe no women should be subject to domestic
abuse. We support women who have experienced all kinds of abuse in
escaping from the violence and rebuilding their lives.
- Asian and Pacific Islander
Women & Family Safety Center (APIWFSC) (206) 467-9976, e-mail:
apiwfsc@apialliance.org
Based in Seattle, WA, APIWFSC is a grass-roots organization
founded in 1993, with a mission to "prevent violence against
women through community organizing and education, and provide safe,
appropriate alternatives for women and their children who face domestic
violence and sexual assault in the Asian and Pacific Islander communities."
The APIWFSC was formed out of organizing within the Filipino Community
in 1993, and is sponsored by the Washington State Commission on Asian
American Affairs in response to several tragic murders of Asian and
Pacific Islander women due to domestic violence. The organization
also works with other community groups to come together for justice
and social change, and join efforts towards community outreach and
education. The APIWFSC is a division of a four-agency partnership
to create a safety net for Asian and Pacific Islander women and their
families affected by domestic violence.
- New
York Asian Women's Center
The New York Asian Women's Center works with women and children whose
lives are affected by domestic violence, to enable them to live safe
and independent lives. As the first domestic violence organization
to serve Asian communities in New York City, and one of the first
in the nation, the Center recognizes that ending violence is a systematic
issue and cannot be solved on an isolated, individual level. By helping
women and children end violence at home, and at the same time, bringing
domestic violence to the forefront of the Asian community's consciousness,
the New York Asian Women's Center serves as a vehicle for placing
the concerns of Asian women and children on the agenda for community
change.
- New
York State Domestic Violence Resources
New York State domestic violence programs.
- Women
of Color and Domestic Violence
All women face barriers when trying
to escape dangerous relationships. Barriers fall into four basic categories:
personal barriers, relationship barriers, institutional barriers,
and cultural barriers. We must explore, understand, and develop a
sensitivity to those barriers particular to women of color.
- Safe
Horizon: Worldwide Domestic Violence Resource Page
International domestic violence resources and information.
- Domestic
Violence in Japan
Are you living in a domestically violent or abusive
home? Are you being beaten? Are you living in fear from your partner?
Do you always feel guilty and helpless? If your answer is yes to any
of these questions there are people and organisations that can help.
In 1999 the Japanese government conducted a nationwide survey on domestic
violence and found that almost 5% of women suffered life-threatening
violence at the hands of their husband or partner. Through this survey
it was also discovered that one in seven women had received medical
treatment at sometime as a result of beatings and almost 18% were
forced to perform sexual acts against their will.
- Domestic
Violence Agencies on the Internet
DV resources available on the web.
- Communities
Against Rape and Abuse (CARA)
A group of activists in the Seattle area banded together
in August 1999 to create an organization that would undermine the
root causes of sexual violence. By January 2000, these activists established
Communities Against Rape and Abuse (CARA), an organization spearheaded
by survivors who are marginalized from mainstream sexual assault services.
CARA creates spaces for our constituencies — including people
who are young, of color, queer, incarcerated, poor, and/or have disabilities
— to invest in the power of collective action, critical dialogue,
and community organizing to undermine rape, abuse, and oppression.
- Washington
State Coalition Against Domestic Violence (WSCADV)
The Coalition is a private, non-profit organization whose primary
membership is comprised of agencies that provide shelter, support
and advocacy services to victims of domestic violence. The Coalition
also has a large associate membership base of individuals, professional
groups, and organizations that work on domestic violence and related
issues. Incorporated in 1990, the Coalition
currently has offices in Olympia and Seattle. A staff of fourteen
oversees a wide range of training, community education, and public
policy programs.
- Women's Rights
Network
Strives to link activists in every corner of the world
who are working to end domestic violence, so that they can access
their most valuable resource: each other. By building and sustaining
a dynamic global network of activists around domestic violence and
related issues, we can begin to create a world that is free from violence
against women and children.
- National Task Force
on Violence Against Women c/o NOW Legal Defense And Education Fund
The Task Force members will be working on the 1998
Violence Against Women Act. They produce resource packs and publications,
including Task Force Updates (see Publications), and summaries of
state activity regarding family violence provisions in their state
welfare plans. For a working draft of the Act, see the National Organization
for Women's website at http://www.now.org. For a list of the legislative
sub-committees, with a contact person if you want to become involved
or to get a copy of draft legislation, and for further information,
contact NOW Legal Defense and Education Fund, at (212) 925-6635.
- Rape, Abuse, and
Incest National Network
Provides information on help and resources throughout
the country, and a helpline
- Health Resource
Center on Domestic Violence
This national clearinghouse based in San Francisco, CA, provides
support for those interested in developing a comprehensive health
care response to domestic violence in all health care settings. Provides
resource and training materials, technical assistance, information
and referrals, and models for local, state and national health policymaking.
- National
Clearinghouse on Marital and Date Rape
A clearinghouse running campaigns to change customs,
policies, behaviors and laws.
- National Coalition
Against Domestic Violence
Formed in 1978 when advocates attended the US Commission
on Civil Rights' hearing on battered women. The NCADV is the oldest
national organization representing grassroots organizations and individuals
working to assist and empower battered women and their children. It
serves as a national information and referral center for the general
public, the media, battered women and children, agencies and organizations.
They offer shelters and support services for battered women and their
children.
- National Resource Center on Domestic
Violence: Toll-free 1-800-537-2238
Provides comprehensive information and resources (including
videos, publications and information packs), policy development, and
technical assistance designed to enhance community responses to and
prevention of domestic violence. They house the Domestic Violence
Awareness Month Project, which designates October of each year as
a focus for the fight against violence. The Project provides information
packets on Planning a Community-Wide Event: Some Basics; Domestic
Violence Awareness Month Theme; and 1998 National Directory of Domestic
Violence Programs, which includes state programs and state coalitions.
- Center for the
Prevention of Sexual and Domestic Violence
An interdenominational educational center based in Seattle, WA, providing
material and training to religious communities, with the aim of the
prevention of sexual and domestic violence. They offer training, workshops,
videos, books and publications, including a quarterly newsletter,
Working Together, to help those who work within the faith community
to combat domestic abuse.
- Family Violence
Prevention Fund
A national organization based in San Francisco, CA, dedicated to the
elimination of domestic violence through public education and prevention
campaigns, public policy reform, model training, advocacy programs,
and organizing. They run programs training all different sectors of
society on action to take against domestic violence, and they build
up integrated community projects.
- Battered Women's Justice Project
(Part of the Domestic Violence Resource Network) Toll-free 1-800-903-0111
Assists legal advocates, law enforcement personnel,
corrections agents, judges, attorneys, domestic violence organizations,
government agencies, students and concerned citizens. The project
provides training, technical assistance, and other resources (but
not the fighting of individual legal cases) through a partnership
with three nationally-recognized organizations, in the areas of criminal
justice, civil justice, and battered women who are charged with crimes.
- Federal
Office of Justice Programs - Violence Against Women Website
Since its inception in 1995, the Violence Against Women Office (VAWO)
has handled the Department’s legal and policy issues regarding
violence against women, coordinated Departmental efforts, provided
national and international leadership, received international visitors
interested in learning about the federal government’s role in
addressing violence against women, and responded to requests for information
regarding violence against women.
- Donate
old cell phones to help victims of domestic violence
You can donate your used wireless phone to support Donate a Phone
CALL to PROTECT, which aids in the fight against domestic violence.
Wireless phones are reprogrammed with emergency phone numbers and
redistributed free of charge to victims in need.
- Minnesota
Higher Education Center Against Violence
The Clearinghouse strives to provide a quick and easy access point
to the extensive electronic resources on the topic of violence and
abuse available online. One focus of the Clearinghouse is to assist
faculty and staff in developing higher education curricula on violence
and abuse. The Clearinghouse places curricula and syllabi used in
violence education programs at institutions of higher education across
the nation on the internet. We also list the homepages of resource
people in the fields of education, law, health services, and human
services. In addition, MINCAVA maintains abstracts of articles and
papers that address concerns about violence across the spectrum of
the subject areas.
- PAVNET
Online Web Page (Partnership Against Violence)
Partnerships Against Violence Network is a "virtual library"
of information about violence and youth-at-risk, representing data
from seven different Federal agencies. Violence prevention professionals
can also communicate and share resources through the Pavnet mailgroup.
- MANAVI
Based in New Brunswick, NJ, Manavi's goal is to increase
awareness of women's rights in society and encourage social change
to end all violence against women. Our approach is nonjudgmental,
non-religious, and nonsectarian. Manavi is committed to the empowerment
of South Asian women and thereby, dedicates its major efforts to facilitating
women's quest for self-reliance and autonomy everywhere.
- Domestic
Abuse Women's Network (DAWN)
Based in Kent, Washington, DAWN seeks to end domestic
violence by:
providing culturally relevant direct services that empower battered
women and their children,advocating for positive changes in the societal
systems that oppress women, and fostering a better understanding of
domestic violence through community education. DAWN is changing the
intergenerational consequences of domestic violence by empowering
women with a full range of accessible culturally relevant services.
We are well known for being a safe place to heal. DAWN is working
to create a community that has no tolerance for domestic violence,
where an increasingly effective legal system holds abusers accountable
for violence against family members.
- CHAYA (Toll
Free Hotline: 1-877-92-CHAYA)
Based in Seattle, WA, Chaya is a community-based non
profit organization established in 1996 to serve South Asian women
in times of crisis and need, and to raise awareness of domestic violence
issues. Chaya is the only organization in Seattle that specifically
addresses the needs of South Asian women. Chaya's greatest strength
is that it is a network of people who are primarily South Asian, who
understand the cultural norms and stigmas associated with domestic
violence, and believe in the inherent strength and potential of each
woman to address situations in which there has been systematic emotional
and physical violence. Chaya’s services are free, confidential,
and available to any woman in need.
4 Asar Time (@#$%&*)
Scandalous! Outrageous! And maybe even downright annoying . . . Here are write-ups that will most definitely make you think and maybe even get you to say to yourself "Ay, oo nga pala." (rough translation: "hmmm. You've gotta point there.") WARNING: Not for narrow-minded, know-it-all, easily-scandalized types.
Beauty Pageant Obsession
by Bamboo Girl, July 1998
Signs of Colonial
Mentality
by Chris Cabuay of the Konshus Pages, July 1998
Contributions?
Please e-mail us
if what you want to share or contribute your write-ups, short stories,
anecdotes and articles here in Pinay Ngayon.
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