By Liliana García
For one day, the Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN) set aside its traditional garnet color and embraced purple for the #8M Race—an event that was not only a sporting competition but also a powerful symbol of resilience, unity, and empathy.
From the early morning hours, hundreds of women gathered at Zacatenco, ready to embark on a journey that represented far more than the five kilometers mapped out in the route. Among them were young girls and older women alike, proving that the fight for equality knows no age.
Before the race began, the Wilfrido Massieu Stadium provided the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable moment: the commemorative photo. All participants assembled at the center of the field to form a massive "8M," creating an indelible image of their participation in the International Women's Day commemoration.
As the race kicked off, the energy in the air was palpable, with even the blooming jacaranda trees framing this remarkable event. It was a day where fraternity and empathy were truly felt. Young women, mothers accompanied by their daughters, and even those pushing strollers ran together in pursuit of a world filled with opportunities for women.
Effort and determination translated into cheers of encouragement, knowing smiles, and warm embraces at the finish line. And, as expected, the Huélum chant echoed with extraordinary intensity, carried by the voices of brave and determined women who joined this initiative to reaffirm their commitment to the cause.
The #8M Race at IPN was not just a demonstration of struggle but also a beacon of hope. Every step taken during this event left a lasting mark, symbolizing a community moving forward with unwavering conviction toward gender equality.