If you don't believe one story can change the world, you haven't read Malayapinas' inspirational postings on the plight of women in the Philippines. This brave woman is speaking out about the oppression and discrimination in her country one story at a time.
Malayapinas (not her real name because reporters are in life-threatening danger in her country) wrote about the 2006 oil spill that wrought havoc on the Guimaras population, wiping out their food source and way of life. She profiled Evelyn, a mother of four who lived off the bounty of the ocean. This quote said it all: “I’ve learnt that poverty and the oil spill accident is not God given. Our need for food, medical care and livelihood are our basic rights. Our rights for rehabilitation and environmental justice must be demanded from the government. Indeed, through organized and collective action for structural change, we can end poverty,” said Evelyn.
After appearing in World Pulse, the magazine that features global issues through the eyes of women, her story was picked up by national newspapers and organizations have been formed that are forcing the polluters to pay for their degradation.
I had the pleasure of meeting Malayapinas and two other Voices of Our Future at a World Pulse Speaking Tour in San Francisco and left inspired by the power of words to make a meaningful difference in the lives of women.
I already volunteer as a Listener for this organization, reading these women's stories, encouraging them to share their insights and pitching in however I can with the publication. Now I want to shout about this worthy cause to everyone I know in the hopes that these brave women's voices will be amplified and their impact increased.
Yes, your stories can make a difference. Please take a moment to check out their great work, share your insight and help them reach their vision.
Yours in Writing,
Promptmasters
JT Long
Jennifer Sander
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