Photo-voice stories of Filipina care workers move audience, draws support

Photo-voice stories of Filipina care workers move audience, draws support

The Canada-based Matatag Project Team in Costa Rica.

By Leny Rose Simbre

San Jose, Costa Rica  – The Matatag team, a group of dedicated researchers and advocates, made a significant impact at the 3rd Global Carework Summit held at the University of Costa Rica from June 7 to 9, 2023. Their exhibit, titled “Matatag: Filipina Care Workers During COVID-19,” featured a compelling collection of photographs taken by Filipina nurses, personal support workers, and in-home caregivers. These powerful images captured their daily struggles and moments of strength as they cared for the most vulnerable during the pandemic.

The Matatag Project employed an innovative approach, utilizing photovoice and knowledge mobilization techniques, to understand the challenges and triumphs faced by Filipina care workers. With a focus on empowerment and support, this initiative aimed to foster a sense of community and resilience among Filipina care workers during the global health crisis. By amplifying the voices of these workers, who often face systemic challenges and underrepresentation, the “Matatag Photovoice Project” advocates for a more equitable society for all migrant workers.

Dr. Ethel Tungohan (York University), with Naomi Lightman (Toronto Metropolitan University) and Pallavi Banerjee (University of Calgary)

Led by Dr. Ethel Tungohan, an Associate Professor at York University and Canada Research Chair in Canadian Migration Policy, the Matatag team collaborated with esteemed scholars, researchers, and community organizers from GABRIELA-Ontario and Migrants Resource Center Canada. The project benefited from the contributions of notable individuals such as Dr. Jessica Ticar from St. Mary’s University, Dr. Marissa Largo from York University, Dr. Conely de Leon from Toronto Metropolitan University, Leny Rose Simbre, an undergraduate student of Human Rights and Equity at York University and Migrante organizer, as well as a dedicated team including Mithi Esguerra, Mauriene Tolentino, Myka Jaylamin, Bea Serdon, Silvia Gonzalez, Angela Natial, and Mycah Panjaita.

The Matatag team’s participation in the 3rd Global Carework Summit garnered significant attention and appreciation. Through their exhibition of photographs and sharing of poignant stories, they shed light on the unique experiences and challenges faced by Filipina care workers. The project aimed not only to raise awareness but also to inspire meaningful action and support for these care workers.

To extend the reach of their project and provide valuable resources, the Matatag team established a dedicated website at [https://filipinacareworkers.com/]. This platform serves as a hub for visitors to delve deeper into the team’s research, access informative resources, and engage in meaningful discussions surrounding the topic of care work during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Dr. Ethel Tungohan and the Matatag team’s commitment to building a community of care during these unprecedented times serve as an inspiration. Their project empowers Filipina care workers and strives to create a society that recognizes and values the vital contributions of all care workers. Through their ongoing efforts, the Matatag team aims to drive positive change, amplify the voices of Filipina care workers, and work towards a future where care work is valued and respected by all.

For more info: Dr. Ethel Tungohan Associate Professor and Canada Research Chair in Canadian migration policy, York University

Email: [Tungohan@yorku.ca]

Website: [https://filipinacareworkers.com/