The latest edition of the recognition event, organized by the Paseo de la Mujer, inspired a deep reflection in me that, although expected, highlighted the continued invisibility of countless historically marginalized women in Mexico. As we delve deeper into the research, we realize the invaluable work that they have carried out over the centuries, with contributions and manifestations that have unfortunately remained in the dark.
The Paseo de la Mujer is a project that emerged from the Fundación México Monterrey 2010 AC, under the impulse of the tireless community leader, Liliana Melo de Sada. Located in the heart of Monterrey’s Fundidora Park, with the objective of knowing and disseminating the significance of women’s contributions to the development of Mexico, paying tribute to those who have marked history. Since its inauguration in 2010, this space has honored more than 600 figures in different fields, inviting reflection and learning, who spread their legacies through different educational resources. More than a project, it has become an icon of the fight for gender equality and an inspiration for new generations.
During the ceremony last Thursday, April 18, 2024, three women whose influence remains alive were recognized: Marta Sahagún, noted for her extensive social efforts; Marinela Servitje, for her dedication to children; and Yola da Santos de Hoyos, founder of the Monterrey Ballet 25 years ago, in addition to other philanthropic actions. In turn, they remembered those already deceased, whose works date back to the 17th century, but who are only now being properly valued. The oldest women, whose work focused mainly on the home and gastronomy, remain largely unknown. As we approach more recent times, they are beginning to emerge in business and professional fields.
Delving into the pages about them took me to fascinating corners of history. Women are approaching today and that is when these “new” businesswomen who contribute from academic professions begin to emerge. And yes, there were those of today, those who have received training, those of us who are fortunate to have the media to express our work, but what about those who left? And those who lived in a world dominated by men? These already have a place in history thanks to the Women’s Walk, to those who had circumstantial, empirical tools, due to economic needs, a stove, or by inheritance…
Of those who are no longer with us, 12 women were honored whose lives have been a testimony of courage and vision. From Paula de Benavides (1600-1684), pioneer of journalism in the New Spain era, to Amparo Serrano Espinosa (1965-2022), entrepreneur and cultural promoter. Also to María Francisca Maximina Muguerza Crespo de Calderón (1849-1913), who stood out as a majority shareholder in the beginnings of Cervecería Cuauhtémoc, who took the reins after the death of her husband, Don Jose Calderón Penilla, in March 1889 and was ignored. in the history of the company. Juana Catalina Romero (1837-1915) that people came to her farm in Oaxaca, “Santa Teresa”, in search of economic or moral help. She modernized agriculture with technological advances, improving the lives of her workers. Her first trip abroad was to Cuba, inspired by the desire to improve sugar production. María Pons Nicoux (1893-1974) innovated in the mole industry, while Fidencia Quiroga Chavarría (1884-1975), known as Tía Lencha, participated in the development of the Monterrey-Nuevo Laredo highway with her Merendero Quiroga, popularizing the so northeastern mashed with egg.
Natalia Medina Núñez (1903-1986) placed Linares on the Mexican gastronomic map with her famous Glorias de leche quemada. María Gertrudis Torres Altamirano (1909-1991), an important figure in the culture of Chihuahua who helped access medicines and medical supplies for health, founder of the pharmaceutical company “Casa Marzam”.
María Elena Aguilar Preciado (1929-2001) promoted the social economy and the training of women to generate family income. Olga Gamboa Páez de García (1924-2006) created the Cloralex formula and was co-founder of Grupo ALEn. Blanca Rosa Álvarez Rodríguez (1923-2018) inspired thousands through the Mexican Association of Women Business Leaders. Augusta Piña de Machado (1927-2019) was a pioneer in the export of meat to the United States.
Their legacy endures as a source of inspiration and guidance for future generations, which is made known thanks to the Paseo de la Mujer, which could also be the monument to the women that history forgot.
