Activists gathered in Valletta earlier today to observe International Women’s Day, celebrating achievements in women’s rights while drawing attention to ongoing injustices and challenges faced by women.
The march, organised by Moviment Graffitti and supported by multiple activist groups, began at Triton Fountain and concluded at St George’s Square.
Participants walked to the sound of drums, chanting slogans such as “whatever we wear, wherever we go, yes means yes, no means no”, “feminist and not fascist” and “my body, my choice, raise your voice”. The event’s slogan, “Women’s Day Every Day,” was intended as a reminder of the everyday struggles women experience.
Shortly after the march began, it was briefly stopped when three boys attempted to disrupt the route- one giving a fascist salute and another trying to snatch the group’s banner according to Times of Malta.
Police intervened, detained the youths, and escorted them to a police station, though no charges will be brought, a Moviment Graffitti spokesperson said.
Amy Abela, a Moviment Graffitti member, spoke about the various difficulties women face daily- such as sexist remarks at work, hiding abortions due to fear of family reporting, and experiences of sexual violence. She emphasised that while these incidents might seem personal, they reflect a broader systemic problem in society.
Abela encouraged women not to let fear govern their lives, saying the public demonstration was “a testament to our courage” and an expression of collective resistance to injustice. She also highlighted solidarity with women not only in Malta but around the world, including in Palestine, Iran, Sudan, Afghanistan, Libya, and Venezuela.
Speakers at the event included Jasmine Conti from Malta Gay Rights Movement (MGRM) and Joanna Iebaili from Lebanese Advocates. Performances followed the speeches by artists Angela & Andrew Vella Zarb, Kor ReSisters, Skimmed and REA.
The march was endorsed by a wide range of organisations, including the aditus foundation, Dance Beyond Borders, Department of Gender & Sexualities (University of Malta), Doctors for Choice, Humanists Malta, Malta Women’s Lobby, Men Against Violence, Migrant Women Association Malta, IVY – Interrupting Violence towards Youth, JC Diversity Committee, SOS Malta, Women Elevation Malta, Women for Women, Women’s Rights Foundation (WRF), Young Progressive Beings and Żminijietna Malta.
Were you at the march?
Credit: Moviment Graffitti
