Tsismis Tote Bag

There is Tsismis in this Bag translates to There is Gossip in this Bag.

Being labelled a Tsismosa (gossiper) in Filipino culture carries a negative connotation, implying an excessive interest in other people's lives and the potential for spreading false information. While this may occasionally hold true, what about the aspect of a Tsismosa who genuinely cares about her community's well-being?

In the Philippines, information naturally flows through oral tradition, especially in communities lacking access to formal channels, prevalent in both urban and rural poor areas. This is why it isn't uncommon to see two or more people just chatting outside their homes, particularly in a landscape where stable employment opportunities are scarce.

In this context, having a space and community that discusses everyday issues creates a sense of solidarity among many women (the people our society often perceives as Tsismosas), providing a platform to address pressing concerns affecting families, including the price of goods, educational access, public services, and in some cases, even family violence.

In the Philippines, these are all typical topics one will hear in a regular 'gossip' conversation. Therefore, these tsismis sessions also help build community support, spread awareness about resources, and connect people in need to appropriate channels.

This is why a Marites shouldn't solely be depicted as a mere rumor- spreading woman; often, she embodies the voice of the everyday Filipina, experiencing and vocalizing the daily challenges of society - a voice that refuses to be silenced.

Learn more about the topic of Gossip and Community Care through this Instagram post!

Product Features

• Black, durable, 100% natural cotton canvas
• Dimensions: 14 x 16 inches; 9" drop

15% of this collection will be donated to the Free Our Sisters, Free Ourselves (FOSFO) campaign - an international campaign under GABRIELA, against the political persecution and repression of women activists and human rights defenders in the Philippines. Learn more about FOSFO by checking out their Facebook page.