On this day exactly 100 years ago, 12 February 1920, the first strike organised by women in Colombia took place at the textile factory in Bello, Antioquia.
Around 400 women walked out demanding equal pay with men, and end to sexual harassment by managers, the abolition of fines for sick leave, reduced surveillance and searches of workers and that salaries be paid directly to women workers, rather than to their fathers or husbands.
Key organisers included Teresa Tamayo, Adelina González, Carmen Agudelo, Teresa Piedrahita, Matilde Montoya and Betsabé Espinoza (pictured). Most male workers at the factory crossed the picket lines while police tried to break the strike. But the women held firm, and they had widespread public support and received donations from workers, especially in Medellin.
Eventually, on 4 March, the women won most of their demands, including a 40% pay increase, reduced working hours, better health and safety, the abolition of fines and a number of abusive managers were dismissed.
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