International Women's Day in Graz

Big demonstration: “When we strike, everything stands still”

The starting point for the demonstration was Karmeliterplatz in Graz.(Bild: Christian Jauschowetz)

Thousands of demonstrators gathered in the city center of Graz on Friday, March 8, to protest for women's rights. The anger about femicides seems to be great, but the solidarity is even greater. They also want to fight against unpaid female labor.

It was cold outside, but the streets of Graz filled up. According to police estimates, around 2,200 women and men gathered on Karmeliterplatz on Friday evening to demonstrate for rights and freedoms on International Women's Day. "Abortion is a Human Right" and "Smash the Patriarchy" were written on their signs.

"Girl power"(Bild: Christian Jauschowetz)

The motto of this year's demonstration: "We care! When we strike, the world stands still!" This refers to care work, which is still largely carried out by women. "Care work is not socially recognized, is unpaid and is done by women," said a speaker at the opening.

"Equal pay for work of equal value"(Bild: Christian Jauschowetz)

Studies also show that women do an above-average amount of unpaid work - a double burden for many. The organizers stated that they are committed to a peaceful society in which all people can live equally regardless of gender, origin, age, ideology or disability.

"Stop violence against women"(Bild: Christian Jauschowetz)

The topics of disability and homelessness also came up among the speakers. "Women with disabilities should be able to develop freely," said a woman from the "Selbstbestimmt Leben" association. Another said on the highly explosive topic of femicides: "For many, it is not possible to break out of the spiral of violence."

Even a femicide survivor had her say. Renate Hofer talked about how she was seriously injured and lay in a coma. "I learned how important any outside help is. But the most important thing was the inner attitude," she said. She then sang a song in front of the audience.

The dancing and singing demonstrators were joined by many children - as well as politicians. Verena Nussbaum, Anna Robosch and Elisabeth Grossmann from the SPÖ were among them. Sandra Krautwaschl from the Green Party carried a sign that read: "Real Men are Feminists". There were only women in the front row of the crowd.

The route led via the Glacis and the Iron Gate to the main square, where concluding speeches were given. According to the police, the demonstration ended shortly after 7 p.m. and passed off without incident.