On Saturday 8 March, International Women's Day, there were very emotional moments in El Poble Nou de Benitatxell with the presentation of the documentary 'Memoria viva. Tribute to working women of the past' and the exhibition by photographer Jessica Hooghiemstra 'Las mujeres de Benitatxell'. Two graphic works that portray with great sensitivity and care the life story of seven women born between 1933 and 1943, who were pioneers in an era in which roles were clearly defined and home and care seemed to be their only destiny.
Dozens of people gathered at the Social Centre to pay tribute to their strength, courage and sacrifice. Pepica Llobell, Carmen Buigues, María Llobell, Gema Fontes, Mónica García, María Comes and Marina Gilabert challenged the rules and sought new opportunities. Some of them, without being aware of it.
With immense effort, they were able to balance their professional and family lives. Some left their home and emigrated to France to work in the grape harvest or as domestic servants, either to support the family economy in difficult times or to pursue the dream of leaving their village. Others found their place in small family businesses or opened their own businesses. And some went further and, in addition to practicing their profession, became pioneers of political activism, defending feminism in all its forms. All of them left an indelible mark.
The Councillor for Equality, Isa Garrido, who was in charge of directing the event and coordinating the project, dedicated a few words of affection to them. “I would like to express my most sincere gratitude to the women protagonists who are with us today and, of course, to those who have not been able to be here. Your presence here is a testament to courage, sacrifice and perseverance. Thank you for opening the doors of your homes to me, for allowing us to enter with cameras and equipment, and for sharing your most intimate memories, even at times when emotion brought us to tears.”
She also thanked the families and the creators of the projects for their collaboration. “I want to thank their families for their patience, for facilitating the logistics and for giving us their support. And, of course, the people who have worked behind the cameras: the photographer Jessica Hooghiemstra and Núria and Raúl from El Mirall de la Marina, making it possible for these stories to remain forever in our collective memory.” In addition, Garrido announced that the intention is to continue the project with more audiovisuals. “We will go down the age range until we reach the present.”
For its part, the mayor, Miguel Ángel García, highlighted the essential work that women have had in sustaining society. "Today we pay tribute not only to the role of these seven women, but to that of many others who have been the foundation, support and pillar of our society. Without their silent and humble work, first from home, with care, and then also adding work outside the home, the generations of today would not have reached where we are."
The three collaborating associations, Associació de Dones, Clásicas y Modernas and the European Union of Women Marina Alta, also participated in the event, reading a manifesto demanding equality and women's rights.
On Sunday, Poble Nou de Benitatxell closed a very complete programme of events designed for all audiences. It included the screening of short films and a discussion with Marina Gilabert (Classical and Modern); a snack, games and an assembly of the Association of Women; the friendly women's football match between Poble Nou de Benitatxell and Benissa with a visit from Valencia CF footballer Gemma Pastor; the dance afternoon with Pam Small and the presentation of Pilar Brotons' book 'No son héroes', organised by EUWMA; the storytelling session 'Rosa Caramel'; the brotherhood meal and dance of the Association of Women and the concert 'En clau de jazz' by female voices from the Atelier Vocal del Cor de La Rectoria.
In addition, this week the two activities that were postponed due to the weather alert will be rescheduled: on Tuesday, March 11, the walk, snack and archaeological explanation will be held in the Abiar washhouse with the Associació de Dones, and on Wednesday, March 12, the film forum of the film 'La abuela y el forastero' with its director, Sergi Miralles, and Arminda García.
You can watch the documentary here.
