Bogotá's Radical Experiment: Valuing Women's Unpaid Care Work

The city of Bogotá has implemented a radical experiment in caregiving, recognizing and valuing the unpaid work of women in the community. As part of this initiative, the city has established a "manzana del cuidado," or care block, where women can access resources, support, and training to care for their families and communities. According to officials, the care block has become a hub for women to connect with one another, share knowledge, and develop skills that benefit their families and neighborhoods. "This is not just a place for women to come and receive services," said María Rodríguez, the director of the care block. "It's a space where they can build relationships, learn from one another, and take ownership of their own care and well-being." Rodríguez added that the care block has helped women develop a sense of community and solidarity, which is essential for their emotional and mental well-being. The care block offers a range of services, including childcare, healthcare, and education. Women can also access training and workshops on topics such as nutrition, parenting, and financial literacy. In addition, the care block has established partnerships with local businesses and organizations to provide women with job training and employment opportunities. Bogotá's experiment in caregiving has gained international attention, with cities around the world expressing interest in replicating the model. "We're seeing a growing recognition of the importance of caregiving and the need for cities to support women in their caregiving roles," said Rachel Cohen Booth, a senior policy correspondent for Vox. "Bogotá's care block is a pioneering effort that demonstrates the potential for cities to make a real difference in the lives of women and families." The care block has also been recognized for its innovative approach to addressing the social and economic challenges faced by women in Bogotá. According to a report by the city's government, the care block has helped reduce poverty and inequality among women, particularly in low-income neighborhoods. The report also noted that the care block has improved women's access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. As the care block continues to grow and evolve, officials are exploring ways to expand its reach and impact. "We're working to establish partnerships with other cities and organizations to share best practices and learn from one another," said Rodríguez. "Our goal is to create a global network of care blocks that can support women and families around the world." In the meantime, the care block remains a vibrant and dynamic space where women can come together to care for one another and build stronger, more resilient communities. As one participant noted, "This is a place where we can be ourselves, without fear or judgment. It's a place where we can support one another and build a better future for ourselves and our families."