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The Surprising Truth: Why Colombia Celebrates Women's Day TWICE A Year (March 8th & November 14th)

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The question of "When is Women's Day in Colombia?" has a surprising and powerful answer: there are actually two dates of profound significance. As of the current date, December 24, 2025, it is crucial to understand that Colombia, unlike most nations, dedicates two separate days to honor and commemorate women, each with a distinct historical context and purpose. This dual recognition reflects the complexity of the struggle for gender equality, blending global solidarity with a deep reverence for national heroines.

The first date is the internationally recognized day of protest and commemoration, while the second is a distinctly Colombian tribute to a national martyr. Knowing the difference is key to understanding the country's unique approach to women's rights and history. This article will break down both dates, their origins, and the specific issues that dominate the conversation in Colombia today.

The Two Dates: International Solidarity (March 8th) vs. National Heroism (November 14th)

Colombia's calendar features two major observances for women, each carrying a different weight and focus. While one aligns with a worldwide movement, the other is rooted in the nation's struggle for independence and historical memory.

1. March 8th: The International Day of Struggle and Commemoration

The most globally recognized date, March 8th, is observed in Colombia as the International Women's Day (Día Internacional de la Mujer). This is not a day of simple celebration or gift-giving; rather, it is a day of powerful social mobilization, reflection, and demand for rights.

  • Global Context: The date commemorates the historical fight for women's rights, including the push for suffrage, labor rights, and gender equality worldwide.
  • Current Focus in Colombia (2025/2026): The national conversation in Colombia on this day is often dominated by urgent issues like femicide, gender-based violence, and the persistent structural inequalities faced by women, particularly indigenous, Afro-Colombian, and rural women.
  • Mobilization: Major cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali see massive marches and protests. Activists use the day to call for stronger government action, justice for victims of violence, and the implementation of laws protecting women's autonomy and safety.
  • International Theme: The global theme, often set by UN Women, focuses on a call to action such as "For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment," which frames the local demands for equality and justice.

The March 8th observance is a critical moment for feminist movements and women's rights organizations to exert political pressure and highlight the challenges that remain in a post-conflict society where women are disproportionately affected by violence and displacement.

2. November 14th: The National Day of the Colombian Woman

The second and uniquely Colombian date is November 14th, officially designated as the Day of the Colombian Woman (Día de la Mujer Colombiana). This date was established by the Congress of the Republic in 1967 (Law 44 of 1967) to honor a national heroine.

Policarpa Salavarrieta: The Heroine of November 14th

The date was chosen to commemorate the execution of Policarpa Salavarrieta Ríos, known affectionately as 'La Pola,' who was a key figure in the struggle for Colombian independence.

  • Biography of Policarpa Salavarrieta:
    • Born: Likely around 1795-1796 (Exact date debated).
    • Role: Seamstress and spy for the revolutionary forces during the Spanish Reconquista.
    • Activities: She moved between the Royalist and Patriot camps, gathering crucial intelligence on troop movements and military plans, which she then passed to the independence fighters.
    • Capture: She was captured in Bogotá (then Santafé de Bogotá) in 1817.
    • Execution: Executed by firing squad on November 14, 1817, in the Plaza Mayor (now Plaza de Bolívar) for the crime of treason.
    • Legacy: Her final words, defiant and patriotic, cemented her status as a symbol of female courage and sacrifice in the face of oppression.
  • The Commemoration: November 14th is a day focused on educational events, historical tributes, and recognizing the role of Colombian women in the nation's history, culture, and identity. It is a celebration of the national spirit, bravery (valentía), and memory (memoria) of women.

This date serves as a powerful reminder that women have been at the forefront of Colombia's most significant historical moments, from the battles for independence to the ongoing efforts for peace and justice.

The Evolution of Women's Rights and Key Entities in Colombia

Understanding the two Women's Days requires acknowledging the significant progress—and persistent challenges—in Colombian gender equality. The spirit of 'La Pola' and the demands of the March 8th protestors are reflected in the nation's legislative and social landscape.

Key Milestones and Legislative Advances

The fight for women's rights in Colombia has seen several critical milestones, often driven by the tireless work of women's organizations and political entities.

  • Suffrage (1954): Colombian women gained the right to vote in 1954, a pivotal moment that allowed for active political participation and the right to stand for election.
  • Property Rights: Significant legislative progress has been made to grant women the right to administer their own properties and finances, addressing historical legal disadvantages.
  • Gender Violence Laws: The government has adopted a series of laws, decrees, and policies to advance the rights of women and protect them from violence and discrimination, particularly in the context of the armed conflict.
  • Constitutional Protections: The Colombian Constitution guarantees the equality of all citizens, providing a legal framework for the protection of women's rights.

Current Challenges and Topical Entities

Despite these advances, the core themes of the March 8th protests highlight the ongoing struggle. Femicide remains a devastating crisis, with activists continually demanding better implementation of existing gender equity laws and stronger institutional responses.

Relevant entities and LSI keywords central to the current dialogue include:

Violence and Peace:

  • Femicide: The murder of women based on their gender, a central rallying cry for activists.
  • Structural Violence: The systemic discrimination and harm embedded in social, political, and economic structures.
  • Armed Conflict: The disproportionate impact of the conflict on women, including sexual violence and displacement.
  • JEP (Jurisdicción Especial para la Paz): The special jurisdiction established during the peace process, which focuses on victims' rights, including those of women affected by the conflict.

Political and Social Entities:

  • UN Women Colombia: The United Nations entity working on gender equality and women's empowerment in the country.
  • Casa de la Mujer: Local women's centers that provide support, legal aid, and shelter.
  • Gender Parity: The political goal of achieving equal representation of women in government and decision-making bodies.
  • The American Convention on Human Rights: The international treaty that Colombia is party to, which obligates the state to protect women's rights.

Ultimately, both the solemn commemoration of November 14th and the activist energy of March 8th underscore a single, powerful message: the Colombian woman's role in shaping the nation is one of resilience, resistance, and an unwavering demand for a future defined by true equality.

cuando es el dia de la mujer en colombia
cuando es el dia de la mujer en colombia

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