LOLA GUATEMALA
FELLOWSHIP INFORMATION SESSION
LOLA Guatemala hosted an event to promote the new LOLA Fellowship, engaging various women from across the continent. The event outlined the requirements for the Fellowship and provided clear guidance on the application process. Attendees discussed their motivations to apply, sharing personal stories and aspirations, highlighting the importance of this unique opportunity to empower and connect women leaders dedicated to liberty.
LOLA GUATEMALA
WORKSHOP ON FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION: LEARNING TO ARGUE
LOLA Guatemala held an event focused on teaching chapter members how to defend their ideas effectively through argumentation. The session covered fallacies in argumentation, providing insights into common pitfalls that can weaken a debate. Attendees learned the importance of arguing against ideas rather than individuals, emphasizing the need to avoid making discussions personal. The event aimed to equip participants with the tools to engage in reasoned and respectful discourse while upholding the principles of constructive dialogue.
LOLA LUCKNOW, INDIA
HOW TO BE FINANCIALLY INDEPENDENT
LOLA Lucknow organized an event to empower women to take control of their financial future. The event provided comprehensive guidance on saving, investing, and managing finances, aiming to break societal barriers that limit women’s economic independence. Key topics included the gender wage gap, limited career advancement opportunities for women, and social norms restricting financial decision-making.
The event highlighted the need for more financial literacy and resource access, particularly in rural areas. Attendees learned practical strategies for overcoming financial barriers, such as increasing financial literacy, investing in personal skills, and breaking dependency on male family members. The program covered essential skills like budgeting, starting small businesses, and building savings, emphasizing the urgent need for accessible financial education and resources for women throughout India.
LOLA LUCKNOW, INDIA
UNDERSTANDING WOMEN’S LEGAL RIGHTS AND THE FIGHT AGAINST GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE
LOLA Lucknow hosted an event to educate women about their legal rights and protections under Indian law. The event raised awareness on combating gender-based violence and seeking justice, addressing issues such as high rates of domestic violence and sexual harassment. Participants learned about key legal provisions, including the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act and rights against workplace harassment. The event also explored the cultural stigmas that discourage women from reporting abuse and the challenges of accessing legal resources, especially in rural areas.
Attendees were empowered to recognize and report gender-based violence, overcome social pressures, and seek legal aid. Emphasis was placed on building community support and leveraging legal frameworks to demand accountability and justice. The event fostered discussions on how women can take action to advocate for their safety and equality, reinforcing the importance of awareness and resilience in navigating these challenges.
LOLA LUCKNOW, INDIA
INTRODUCING LOLA & NETWORK
LOLA Lucknow hosted an event to introduce new members to the organization and its mission of empowering women through liberty and leadership. The event included a networking drive to raise awareness about LOLA’s activities and vision.
Discussions centered on building supportive networks to help women break free from traditional roles and advance their careers. Attendees shared insights on how organizations like LOLA can foster opportunities for growth, mentorship, and financial independence, emphasizing its role in empowering women across India.
LOLA LUCKNOW, INDIA
BREAKING THE GLASS CEILING: WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP
LOLA Lucknow organized an event to encourage women to pursue leadership roles across various sectors and provide strategies for overcoming barriers in male-dominated fields. The event focused on inspiring confidence and resilience among women striving to break through the glass ceiling, addressing challenges such as gender bias and limited representation of women in senior roles.
The event highlighted the impact of cultural stereotypes discouraging women from pursuing ambitious careers and the lack of mentorship and professional networks available to women in leadership. Attendees explored strategies like mentorship, building strong professional networks, and practicing self-advocacy to navigate workplace obstacles. The event emphasized the importance of fostering inclusive work environments and shifting societal perceptions about women’s capabilities in leadership.
LOLA LISBON, PORTUGAL
AS DIFERENTES FACES DO LIBERALISMO
LOLA Lisbon held an event to explain the different forms of liberalism in a didactic and engaging manner. The discussion addressed the lack of a liberal party defending liberal principles in a country where even the social democracy party is considered the least socialist option.
The session explored various strands of liberal thought, from classical liberalism to objectivism, providing attendees with a comprehensive understanding of these ideologies. Joana Monteiro, a social media manager, UX designer, and coordinator of the Liberate Movement, served as the speaker, sharing her expertise and insights to enrich the conversation.
LOLA GUATEMALA
LET’S GO BOWLING AND TALK ABOUT FREEDOM!
LOLA Guatemala organized an event to unite chapter members and build community. The gathering addressed critical societal issues, including the preference many Guatemalan adults, especially older generations, have for dictatorships over democracies. This inclination complicates efforts to teach younger generations the importance of defending freedom and resisting state overreach.
Discussions focused on the ongoing situation in Venezuela under Maduro’s dictatorship, highlighting the dangers of governments with excessive power. Attendees explored the high costs of defending freedom in many Latin American countries and reflected on individual responsibilities in promoting and safeguarding liberty. The event emphasized the need for collective action and vigilance in addressing these challenges.
LOLA WINDHOEK, NAMIBIA
THE POWER OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN ADVANCING LIBERTARIAN VALUES
LOLA Windhoek hosted an event exploring how young people define and engage with libertarian values such as personal freedom, limited government, and free markets. Discussions emphasized libertarian principles, including individual liberty, personal responsibility, and opposition to government overreach in personal and economic matters.
The event addressed effective ways for young libertarians to participate in civic activities, such as voting, campaigning, and grassroots organizing. Attendees explored leveraging technology and social media to promote libertarian ideas and mobilize peers. The session also highlighted the unique challenges young libertarians face in advocating for their beliefs and strategies to overcome them. The conversation concluded with ideas on how young people can shape the future of the libertarian movement to ensure its relevance in addressing contemporary issues, emphasizing the importance of free-market capitalism and the protection of civil liberties.
LOLA CORDOBA, ARGENTINA
PUBLIC UNIVERSITY ISSUES
LOLA Córdoba held an event to discuss the current state of public universities amidst ongoing student riots and unrest. The session highlighted the challenges caused by violence and protests against the government, which have disrupted university operations. Many students cannot attend classes as some tutors and fellow students block their entry, infringing on their study rights.
The discussion also addressed how political differences impact students’ lives and education. Attendees explored concerns about how the left is influencing students through fear campaigns targeting the president and libertarian ideas. The event emphasized the importance of safeguarding academic spaces from political manipulation and ensuring students’ access to education.
LOLA SANTIAGO, CHILE
MATERNIDAD Y NUEVO DIRECTORIO LOLA
LOLA Santiago held a meeting to discuss new alliances, analyze a potential regional directory, and brainstorm plans for the coming months in light of Chile’s political situation. The meeting focused on internal coordination, incorporating new participants, and addressing the challenges posed by significant inflation and a left-leaning government that complicates the advancement of individual liberties.
Attendees discussed LOLA’s direction for the coming months, exploring opportunities to establish strategic partnerships with other foundations to expand their reach. The discussion also included plans to open new chapters in regional areas, aiming to strengthen LOLA’s presence and impact across Chile.
LOLA SANTIAGO, CHILE
DESAYUNO Y CHARLA SOBRE EMPODERAMIENTO Y DERECHOS DE LA MUJER ANTE TRIBUNALES DE JUSTICIA CHILENOS
LOLA Santiago hosted an event focused on empowering women with knowledge about their legal rights. The session addressed the limited awareness many individuals have about the law and emphasized the importance of women asserting their rights in legal matters.
The event included practical guidance on navigating judicial processes, such as requesting child support and using online platforms provided by the judicial system. Pamela Méndez, a litigator and forensic expert specializing in family law, served as the speaker, offering her expertise to inspire and educate attendees on legal empowerment for women.
LOLA JAKARTA, INDONESIA
LOLA HALLOWEEN SOCIAL NIGHT
LOLA Jakarta held a meeting to discuss the chapter’s next initiatives and address pressing women’s issues in Indonesia. Participants shared insights on challenges such as persistent catcalling regardless of attire, domestic violence highlighted by a tragic case of a mother killed by her husband during an argument, and the broader implications of Indonesia’s political climate, marked by human rights concerns involving the current president and vice president.
The discussion also focused on personal and professional development, where attendees exchanged experiences navigating challenges in workplaces and campuses. The meeting provided a platform for LOLA Jakarta members to connect, share personal stories, and strategize on ways to promote liberty and support women in their community.
LOLA MARACAIBO, VENEZUELA
AFGANISTÁN: MUJERES, DERECHOS Y RESISTENCIA
LOLA Maracaibo hosted an event to raise awareness about the struggles and limitations faced by women in Afghanistan, focusing on their fight for rights under oppressive regimes. The session encouraged dialogue on global solidarity, with 25 attendees discussing parallels between Afghan women’s resistance and similar challenges in Venezuela and other authoritarian contexts.
The event highlighted the impact of political repression, lack of individual freedoms, and economic instability on women in Venezuela. Participants examined how authoritarian regimes use fear and control tactics to silence dissent, mainly targeting women’s rights movements. The discussion emphasized the importance of solidarity among women’s rights activists worldwide and explored how international efforts to promote human rights often clash with domestic policies prioritizing state control. The speaker, Franchesca Hilario, an accomplished diplomat and advocate for women’s rights and youth leadership, inspired participants to apply lessons from Afghan women’s resilience to their communities and regions.
LOLA BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA
PERSONAL FINANCE EVENTO PLANNING
LOLA Buenos Aires held an event to address women’s lack of personal finance education in Argentina, aiming to empower them to achieve economic independence. The event, conducted on Zoom with over 19 attendees, was the second part of the “Personal Finance” series.
The session provided practical financial knowledge and strategies to help women manage their finances. Additionally, participants discussed plans for an End-of-Year activity for the chapter, fostering further engagement and collaboration among members.
LOLA CHIHUHUA, MEXICO
FINANZAS PERSONALES
LOLA Chihuahua hosted an event to educate women about protecting their financial future and the tools available to help them plan. The discussion emphasized the importance of economic independence for women, regardless of their chosen lifestyle, and the need for a “backup plan” for unforeseen circumstances.
The speaker, María José Salinas, leader of Feminismo Original, shared her expertise in financial tools, including medical and life insurance and stock investments. She also introduced her efforts to establish a LOLA chapter in Guanajuato, aligning with the shared mission and vision of empowering women through liberty and leadership.
LOLA CHIHUHUA, MEXICO
DONDE ESTA MARÍA OROPEZA
LOLA Chihuahua held an event to raise awareness about María Oropeza’s situation. The event shared María’s story and current status, highlighting her challenges.
Attendees were encouraged to support her cause with an open invitation to make donations—the event aimed to foster solidarity and provide tangible assistance to María during this critical time.
LOLA CARACAS, VENEZUELA
BIRRAS E IDEAS ENTRE CHICAS: ¿ESTÁS DE ACUERDO CON LA LEGALIZACIÓN DE LAS DROGAS?
LOLA Caracas hosted a debate to analyze and reflect on the morality and implications of drug use, exploring whether legalization could be a viable option. The discussion also addressed broader social challenges, including poor-quality education, extreme poverty, gender violence, and the lack of recognition for women’s contributions.
Participants concluded that they would support drug legalization only under specific societal conditions, such as limited government involvement and a high standard of living. In the absence of these conditions, they opposed legalization. The debate also highlighted the state’s monopoly on drug distribution and its significant financial gains from the current system.
LOLA IBADAN, NIGERIA
HUMAN RIGHTS AND LIBERTARIANISM: EMPOWERING THE GIRL CHILD IN NIGERIA
LOLA Ibadan hosted an event focused on how the fundamental principles of human rights serve as the cornerstone of libertarian ideals, emphasizing their role in empowering Nigerian girls to thrive in a free society. The discussion explored the connection between Nigeria’s independence and the broader pursuit of personal liberty, particularly for women and girls, highlighting that true freedom is political but also economic and social.
Panelists Adeyemi Abisola, Adesina Debra, and Boluwatife Oladejo addressed key challenges Nigerian girls face, including limited access to quality education, early marriage, gender-based violence, and economic exclusion. They highlighted how libertarian principles can drive reforms to remove barriers to education, promote private-sector solutions, and empower girls to access economic opportunities. The discussion emphasized that empowering girls through education and opportunity builds a more inclusive and equitable society, ensuring that all citizens fully realize independence.
LOLA RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL
CHOPP LOLA-RJ
LOLA Rio de Janeiro hosted a casual gathering to encourage conversations among participants. The event provided a relaxed atmosphere for networking and building connections.
Attendees shared insights about their professional lives, highlighting key aspects of their respective fields. The gathering served as an opportunity to strengthen bonds and exchange knowledge, promoting collaboration and mutual support within the community.
LOLA CALGARY, CANADA
LOLA CALGARY BRUNCH WITH EVA CHPIUK
LOLA Calgary held an event to discuss the dangers of government overreach and how individuals can hold elected officials accountable. The session emphasized the importance of recognizing and combating censorship and big government to protect individual freedoms.
The keynote speaker, Eva Chipiuk, a lawyer and founder of Empowered Canadians, shared her insights on empowering civilians and taking actionable steps to hold governments accountable. Drawing from her experience advocating for minority groups, rural farmers, indigenous communities, and protestors, she highlighted the importance of standing against government and business overreach. Eva shared her unique experience cross-examining the sitting Prime Minister of Canada, inspiring attendees with her dedication to justice and liberty.
LOLA WARSAW, POLAND
LOLA TABLE ON FREEDOM GAMES
LOLA Warsaw participated in one of the most prominent freedom conferences in Poland, hosting a table to introduce attendees to LOLA’s mission and initiatives. The chapter engaged with over 100 new women, sharing the organization’s commitment to promoting personal and economic freedom for women, and collected ten signups for upcoming events.
The event also addressed key women’s issues in Poland, particularly the abortion ban and limited access to contraception. Discussions highlighted the principles of individualist feminism and how they differ from mainstream feminism. The chapter showcased LOLA’s global efforts to empower women and foster liberty. As a result of their impactful presence, LOLA Warsaw was invited to the prestigious Economic Forum in Karapacz, one of Poland’s most important economic conferences.
LOLA MARANHO
LOLA MARANHÃO’S ONE-YEAR BIRTHDAY
LOLA Maranhão celebrated its first year in the state with an event focused on creating a safe and welcoming environment for women. Attendees shared stories, reflected on challenges, and discussed ways to make the coming year more impactful.
The event launched the HERE’S A LOLA space, providing a platform for support and connection. To ensure safety, the chapter secured support from the state’s military police and additional assistance from the organizer’s husband. Everything ran smoothly, and the gathering fostered an atmosphere of resilience and empowerment, marking a meaningful milestone for LOLA Maranhão.
LOLA MARANHO
MONTHLY LIBRARY EVENT
LOLA Maranhão held a meeting to resume activities after challenges experienced since June of this year. Despite being a small gathering, the event provided an opportunity to reconnect and rebuild.
Discussions focused on reflecting on the chapter’s one-year milestone and brainstorming ways to restructure and strengthen future efforts. The meeting marked a positive step toward revitalizing LOLA Maranhão’s mission and engagement.
LOLA HARARE, ZIMBABWE
THE POWER OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN ADVANCING LIBERTARIAN VALUES
LOLA Harare hosted an event to analyze how youth can become drivers of libertarian values. The discussion highlighted the need for more attention given to young people, particularly regarding liberty-related issues and their challenges in accessing entrepreneurial project funding.
Speakers Tanaka A. Ndongera, a Young Social Innovator and Senior Coordinator with African Students for Liberty, and Gracious Phiri, Regional Coordinator for LOLA Africa and healthcare advocate, emphasized the role of youth in promoting liberty through innovation, digital advocacy, influencing public policy, entrepreneurship, and writing. They discussed liberty-focused initiatives such as AfCFTA, Tech Liberty, and Green Liberty, showcasing their impact across Africa. The speakers encouraged youth to engage in workshops and training programs, leverage social media, and actively implement libertarian ideology as drivers of change in their communities.
LOLA PESHAWAR, PAKISTAN
DIGITALIZATION AND WOMEN’S ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT
LOLA Peshawar held an event to discuss women’s challenges in doing business in Pakistani society. The conversation focused on the socio-economic barriers that make it difficult for women to thrive in business, highlighting their vulnerability in the current environment.
The discussion also covered the impact of digitalization on working women and the need for women to adapt to new technologies to improve their well-being. Participants shared insights on how technology can be both a challenge and an opportunity, stressing the importance of preparing women to embrace digital tools for personal and professional growth.
LOLA YAOUNDE, CAMEROON
THE POWER OF YOUNG PEOPLE IN ADVANCING LIBERTARIAN VALUES
LOLA Yaounde held an event focused on leadership development, engagement, activism, policy advocacy, and awareness education. In Cameroon, the challenges of poverty, youth unemployment, income inequality, gender inequality, domestic violence, and political corruption were highlighted as critical issues.
The speakers elaborated on libertarian values and emphasized the importance of young people in promoting these principles. Participants learned about the power of social media in advancing libertarian values and were reminded that youth are often open to new ideas. The discussion also covered the role of libertarian think tanks and the global youth movement for freedom. Young activists were encouraged to advocate for freedom and human rights, focusing on the role of international solidarity in promoting libertarian values.
The speakers were Marie Noanga, a youth advocate and master in public administration, and Swirri Stephanie, a public health specialist and gender activist.
LOLA KAMPALA, UGANDA
THE CASE FOR FREE TRADE: BARRIERS TO GLOBAL PR3
LOLA Kampala hosted an event to explore the concept of individual liberty for women and the opportunities free trade provides for their economic empowerment. The event also addressed women’s challenges in achieving financial independence and sought solutions through Focus Group Discussions.
Attendees learned about free trade and its benefits before dividing into focus groups to identify key challenges, such as lack of funds and capital, inadequate skills for the job market, cultural limitations, lack of exposure, and language barriers. The groups presented potential solutions, including the need for awareness campaigns, skill-building initiatives, adult education programs, and applying for grants to support women-focused projects. The event fostered a collaborative atmosphere to empower women with knowledge and actionable strategies for overcoming these obstacles.
LOLA HARARE, ZIMBABWE
STRATEGIC ACTION PLANNING MEETING
LOLA Harare held a strategic action meeting to plan activities for 2025, educate members on the principles of liberty, and strengthen connections among members and leaders. The discussions focused on expanding liberty advocacy among Zimbabwean women and aligning efforts with LOLA’s vision and mission.
Key outcomes included plans to forge partnerships with local organizations, women’s groups, and community leaders to broaden the chapter’s reach. Attendees emphasized the importance of grassroots outreach in rural areas to educate women on liberty principles and economic empowerment. Proposed initiatives included workshops, seminars, and conferences on entrepreneurship, leadership, and policy advocacy. The chapter also outlined plans to leverage social media, online webinars, and influencer collaborations to engage more women. Establishing town chapters and mentorship programs was highlighted as a way to enhance community engagement and leadership development, driving liberty-driven change across Zimbabwe.
LOLA SAO PAULO, BRAZIL
HAPPY HOUR LOLA SÃO PAULO
LOLA São Paulo held an event aimed at revitalizing the movement in the state and encouraging girls to build connections for personal growth and enhanced activism. Participants discussed ways to engage women in the movement better. They shared their professional experiences, particularly in political campaigns with libertarian candidates, which is crucial in Brazil due to the rise of authoritarianism.
LOLA SOUTH FLORIDA, FL
LATTE LOLAS: ROUND TABLE ON FLORIDA’S BALLOT AMENDMENTS
LOLA South Florida held a meeting to plan a virtual gathering for chapter members and discuss strategies to promote liberty in the 2024 Florida ballot amendments and local elections. Participants delved into the pros and cons of various amendments and their implications for individual freedom and justice.
Discussions covered non-partisan school board elections, emphasizing the importance of removing politics from education due to Florida’s closed primary system and public voting records. Participants analyzed the right to hunt and fish amendment, noting its potential to make gun restrictions harder to impose. The group explored marijuana legalization from a criminal justice and liberty standpoint, highlighting its potential to enable safer use and reduce prison system burdens. The discussion also addressed women’s health ramifications of abortion bans, focusing on medical conditions like ectopic pregnancies and rheumatoid arthritis. Other topics included the inflation adjustment for homestead tax exemptions, with the sentiment that “taxation is theft,” and the pros and cons of allowing public campaign funds for public office positions to level the playing field for candidates outside the wealthy elite.
LOLA PESHAWAR, PAKISTAN
MOVIE DISCUSSION – ANIMAL FARM
LOLA Peshawar organized an event where participants watched and discussed Animal Farm. The session explored how authoritarianism leads to social destruction and impacts society.
The discussion highlighted how many people follow socialist and communist ideologies without understanding their repercussions, enabling governments to implement increasingly stringent policies and regulations. The event encouraged critical thinking about the dangers of authoritarian regimes and the importance of safeguarding individual freedoms.
LOLA LUCKNOW, INDIA
EMPOWERING WOMEN: A JOURNEY TO WOMEN’S LIBERTY
LOLA Lucknow hosted an event focused on equipping women with the knowledge and skills to recognize their potential and overcome challenges to their liberty. The session emphasized creating a supportive network where women could share experiences, uplift one another, and feel empowered to advocate for their rights.
Discussions addressed the challenges women in Lucknow face, such as limited job opportunities, wage inequality, and barriers to entrepreneurship due to lack of funding and mentorship. Participants also explored the impact of gender-based violence, harassment, and inadequate safety measures on women’s freedom and mobility, which hinder their participation in public life, education, and employment. The underrepresentation of women in governance and decision-making roles was highlighted as a key obstacle to addressing these issues effectively.
Key takeaways included strategies for achieving financial independence through money management, entrepreneurship, and employment opportunities. Participants also discussed the importance of breaking gender stereotypes to support broader participation and ensuring equal access to education and vocational training as essential steps toward empowerment.
LOLA LUCKNOW, INDIA
HOW KNOWLEDGE EMPOWERS WOMEN
LOLA Lucknow hosted an event to provide women with resources and information to increase access to education and lifelong learning opportunities. The event aimed to empower women by developing skills and knowledge to boost their confidence in personal and professional settings, equipping them to make informed choices about their careers, finances, health, and social roles.
The discussions addressed key challenges faced by women in Lucknow, including gender inequality in education due to social expectations, early marriages, and limited support for higher studies. Economic dependency and limited employment opportunities were also highlighted as significant barriers, with many women lacking access to jobs, skill development, and entrepreneurship resources. Participants explored the political underrepresentation of women, which results in policies that often fail to address issues like safety, education, and employment rights.
LOLA LUCKNOW, INDIA
WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A LIBERTARIAN WOMEN IN INDIA?
LOLA Lucknow hosted an event focused on helping participants understand how liberty, individual rights, and personal responsibility apply to women’s lives in the Indian context. The event encouraged women to pursue personal and economic freedom, empowering them to make independent choices in all aspects of life. It also aimed to create a community of like-minded women advocating for liberty and addressing challenges unique to women in India.
The discussions highlighted key issues such as social pressures and traditional gender norms in Lucknow, which often limit women’s freedom and discourage independence. Participants explored economic constraints, including challenges in accessing quality employment, equal pay, entrepreneurship support, and political marginalization that leaves women underrepresented in policymaking. Key takeaways included championing individual freedom, advocating for personal autonomy in career and lifestyle choices, and promoting economic empowerment through free-market principles. Attendees emphasized the value of minimal state intervention, supporting reduced government control and policies that uphold personal freedoms and women’s rights.
LOLA DHAKA, BANGLADESH
ONLINE BOOK DISCUSSION OF LOLA DHAKA BOOK & MOVIE CLUB
LOLA Dhaka hosted a discussion on Memshaheb, a famous Bangla novel by Nimai Bhattacharya. The novel, centered on themes of unrequited love and loneliness, explores the protagonist Jayanta’s longing for a love that seems out of reach. The character “Memshaheb” represents an idealized and often unattainable image of a woman, reflecting societal tendencies to either pedestalize or objectify women as distant aspirations.
The discussion prompted attendees to examine how societal norms, class barriers, and male expectations shape women’s identities. From a female perspective, the portrayal of Memshaheb highlighted the need for more nuanced and authentic representations of women in literature. Participants emphasized valuing women’s voices, agency, and individuality in storytelling, fostering a critical dialogue about gender and representation in cultural narratives.
LOLA JAKARTA, INDONESIA
LIBERTY SHIELD SISTERS VOL. 02
LOLA Jakarta hosted an event to educate women about their rights to life and security alongside the principles of non-aggression from a libertarian perspective. The event included a practical introduction to Muay Thai as a form of self-defense, empowering participants to better understand their rights through physical training. Attendees were also provided with self-defense tools, including emergency alarm kits, feminine hygiene, and personal care kits.
Following the training session, a discussion was held on how self-defense is both a necessity and a fundamental right tied to the rights to life and security. The conversation addressed the rising incidences of sexual harassment and assault across the country, exploring how acknowledging and understanding these rights can help women navigate these challenges. The importance of the non-aggression principle was also emphasized, highlighting its relevance as a libertarian solution to promote safety and security without perpetuating violence.
LOLA LILONGWE, MALAWI
HUMAN RIGHTS AS FOUNDATION OF LIBERTARIANISM
LOLA Lilongwe hosted an event exploring the critical connection between property rights and human rights, such as the rights to life, liberty, and security. The discussion emphasized how property rights underpin individual autonomy and highlighted the non-aggression principle (NAP), which asserts that individuals should not initiate force or coercion against others.
The event also addressed the dangers of excessive government power, which can erode freedoms such as speech, assembly, and association. Attendees discussed strategies to limit government overreach and protect individual rights through constitutional protections, judicial review, and civil liberties. Additionally, the conversation touched on gender-based violence, acknowledging that many young girls and women in Malawi face physical or sexual violence and emphasizing the role of human rights in combating these issues.
The speakers included Mary Joy Takali, Deputy Regional Coordinator from Uganda, and Chisomo Ponell Bangula and Takondwa Manda, both Gender Specialists from Malawi. They provided valuable insights into safeguarding individual freedoms and promoting equality.
LOLA GUATEMALA
CHILDREN’S DAY
LOLA Guatemala hosted an event attended by 35 children to teach the principles of freedom of choice and responsibility for one’s actions. Through an engaging story, the children were introduced to the concept of making decisions and understanding the consequences that come with them.
The children were encouraged to reflect on the story’s lessons during the discussion. They clearly understood that with the freedom to choose comes the responsibility to accept and manage the outcomes of their decisions. The event provided a valuable foundation for fostering critical thinking and personal accountability at a young age.
LOLA JUJUY, ARGENTINA
MES ROSA, PREVENCIÓN Y CONCIENTIZACIÓN DEL CÁNCER DE MAMAPREVENCIÓN Y CONCIENTIZACIÓN DEL CÁNCER DE MAMA
LOLA Jujuy organized an event to address breast cancer, leveraging the awareness and prevention focus of the designated month. The session explored the challenges faced by women in accessing effective healthcare, highlighting the need for improved public and private healthcare services and better educational initiatives on health.
Discussions also addressed systemic issues such as inadequate healthcare infrastructure, low-quality education, lack of teacher training, and a need for curriculum reform. On the economic front, the informality of the economy and the political crisis of representation were identified as significant barriers to progress. The speakers emphasized that while public and private healthcare systems provide treatments, including free options for breast cancer patients, high costs and border challenges—such as foreign nationals overwhelming public healthcare facilities—strain the system. The event concluded with a call for more decisive government action and better management of healthcare resources in border areas.
The speakers included Dr. Gustavo Briones, a gynecologist and former head of service at the Héctor Quintana Maternal and Child Hospital, and Lic. Andrés Federico Jaramillo, a Provincial Committee Against Torture, Cruel, Inhuman, and Degrading Treatment member. Their insights provided valuable perspectives on the urgent need for healthcare reforms and effective regional governance.
LOLA DHAKA, BANGLADESH
LEADERS MEET
LOLA Dhaka held a meeting to strategize recruiting new members and planning events for the next three months. The focus was on attracting more women to the path of liberty and increasing awareness about women’s freedom and individual rights.
Chapter leaders highlighted key societal issues and discussed strategies to overcome barriers to achieving personal and collective freedom. The session emphasized the importance of breaking traditional norms and fostering a community that empowers women to advocate for their liberty. Plans for upcoming events were also outlined to engage new members and strengthen the chapter’s mission.
LOLA JAKARTA, INDONESIA
LOLA WALKING TOUR
LOLA Jakarta held a walking discussion to explore the impact of the free market on women. The conversation highlighted that many women still have misconceptions about the definition of a free market and its societal role. Participants also addressed activists’ frustrations regarding men’s presence in discussions about liberty and empowerment.
The chapter emphasized the need for education on free-market principles, mainly through social media, to clarify its benefits and relevance for women. Attendees agreed on emphasizing empowerment rather than attributing challenges to gender differences, promoting a balanced and inclusive approach to advancing liberty.
LOLA TEL AVIV, ISRAEL
WEBINAR ABOUT THE US ELECTION
LOLA Tel Aviv hosted a session led by attorney Nitzan Ohali Maron, Head of LOLA Tel Aviv, featuring Grace Bydalek, an American actress, journalist, and activist. The discussion delved into the 2024 U.S. elections, examining candidates’ platforms, their potential impact on the Middle East and Israel, and key differences between the leading contenders.
The conversation covered social issues such as abortion, immigration, and healthcare. Participants analyzed the post-Roe v. Wade debate, party stances on abortion access, and the framing of abortion as a healthcare issue. Discussions on immigration highlighted challenges in urban areas like New York City due to rising migrant numbers, while healthcare reform was viewed as necessary across the political spectrum.
Economic issues included inflation, the housing affordability crisis, and federal economic policy. Rising costs and limited housing availability were discussed as major concerns for Americans. Libertarian candidate Chase Oliver’s stance on eliminating tariffs and reducing federal government involvement was presented as a contrast to mainstream approaches.
On political and foreign policy matters, participants explored election integrity, voter sentiment, and U.S.-Israel relations. The debate on foreign aid to Israel and the divide between isolationist and interventionist policies were key topics. Third-party influence was also discussed, with Oliver’s non-traditional positions on government size, trade, and foreign policy offering a fresh perspective. The event fostered a nuanced understanding of the 2024 U.S. elections and their global implications.