International Women’s Day on 8 March is an occasion to honor women’s contributions to family and society, while recalling the struggle for equality, freedom and the better things in life.
On Côn Đảo, 8 March also offers a particular perspective on history. This place, once known for its harsh prison system, witnessed countless stories of resilient, unyielding Vietnamese women. Despite imprisonment, deprivation and brutal torture, many female political prisoners held firmly to their ideals, solidarity with their fellow prisoners and faith in their country’s future.
Resilient women in the prisons of Côn Đảo
In the history of Côn Đảo Prison, women not only endured loss and sacrifice but also took part directly in struggles, protected their comrades and kept the revolutionary spirit alive.
Within the prison walls, they faced illness, hunger, cold and the harsh prison regime together. Compassion, solidarity and the will to live became sources of strength that helped many stand firm in seemingly unbearable circumstances.
Stories preserved in memoirs, former prisoners’ accounts and historical records portray Vietnamese women as compassionate, steadfast and unwilling to yield to adversity.
Remarkable classes within four prison walls
One moving memory of life among Côn Đảo’s female political prisoners is their determination to continue studying even while imprisoned.
According to former female prisoners, when paper and pens were unavailable, pieces of brick and small stones could serve as writing tools, while floors or walls became blackboards.
Those who could read taught those who could not, and those with knowledge shared it with others. These simple lessons sustained literacy learning while also encouraging one another and keeping hope alive.
Alongside studying, female prisoners cared for one another during illness, shared every portion of food, and sewed, embroidered or sang together when circumstances allowed.
These everyday acts became a distinctive part of the memories of humanity within the prisons.
8 March and the meaning of gratitude on Côn Đảo
Reflecting on International Women’s Day on Côn Đảo means more than recalling examples of steadfast struggle. It is also an opportunity to consider the value of peace and the sacrifices of earlier generations.
Each story of the women once imprisoned here illuminates a different aspect of history, from courage and comradeship to the longing to live in an independent, free country.
For today’s generations, learning about and preserving these memories is also a way to express gratitude to the women who devoted their youth and their lives to their country.
Places to learn about women’s history on Côn Đảo
Visitors to Côn Đảo in March can take time to learn about the struggles and daily lives of those once held here.
Notable places include:
- Côn Đảo Museum: A place that preserves and displays documents, photographs and artifacts reflecting the history and lives of generations of Côn Đảo prisoners.
- The Côn Đảo Prison historic sites: Places where visitors can learn about conditions of imprisonment, prisoners’ struggles and their solidarity through different historical periods.
- Hàng Dương Cemetery: A place of remembrance for revolutionary fighters and patriots who lost their lives, including women remembered by history.
When visiting these sites, wear suitable clothing, maintain order, respect the memorial spaces and take time to listen to the historical accounts presented at each location.
Honoring the past and preserving today’s values
International Women’s Day on 8 March on Côn Đảo can be an occasion for everyone to reflect on women’s quiet yet immense contributions to the nation’s history.
From classes held in prison to sharing in harsh circumstances, the stories of Côn Đảo’s female political prisoners show that compassion and resilience can endure even in the hardest times.
Today, as Côn Đảo welcomes visitors from Vietnam and abroad, these memories remain an important part of the island’s historical and cultural value.
8 March is not only a time to send women good wishes, but also an opportunity to thank the generations of women who helped bring about peace, independence and the life we enjoy today.
Note: This article introduces history and expresses gratitude on International Women’s Day, 8 March. It is not an announcement of a separate annual event or memorial ceremony on Côn Đảo. Any specific activities will depend on the organizer’s program in each year.