*This poem was in collaboration with visual artist Crisanta Moon of Cavite, Philippines for Women's Rights and displayed at the Espasyo Art Center in Cavite.*



For what is it that makes a woman equal with liberating rights?

It is the balance that gives some men the unending frights.

We were created equal as we are all connected,

Women do not wish to overrule the mainstream which has been truly subjective,

Subjected to such pain and torment that tells them they are wrong,

but if you were to listen to them you could hear a mother that shall give her endless song.

Do you not remember the days of a mothers comfort to a suckling child?

It is this power that has calmed the wild.

For to men who hold a firm grip,

It is the mother who gives her soft lip.

Why is there so much discrimination with it all,

To much hate and with this a deep fall.

Of oppression from separating the sexes for your own gain,

The world has changed and shall not remain the same.

It is not the men we blame, but the misunderstanding that came.

We do not wish to rise above,

but to be equal as you should love.

Love each other,

For one could be your own; a sister and a mother.

Will you treat us with the same respect?

This is all we want is for you to stand and reflect.

Do we not bring you joy?,

We bring from us your women and boys.

I believe since we are able to do this,

We suffer so that you can be risen to bliss.

We love our men, and wish to be treated right,

This is a test to all men, A time to forget the fight for rights.

We are women free and proud,

Our voices unite in the common crowd,

So bold, so loud, so proud.