From Isis to iO

1974

In the heart of the kitchen, three bold feminists—Marilee, Jane, and Judy—crafted the visionary idea of Isis International, as a transformative force in the feminist movement. It would be dedicated to building cross-border information and communication networks that empower women and women’s groups across continents.

1987

The first Isis publication was a bulletin that reported on the Tribunal on Crimes Against Women, which was held in Brussels in 1976. Marilee Karl: “Modest and simple though it was, our work generated responses from women around the world who began writing to us, sending us copies of their publications and asking for information.” The exchange of information and resources between women’s groups across the seas grew, as the women’s movement grew globally.

1988

The decision to move Isis International to Manila was a bold and strategic one, driven by both political and financial considerations. With a deep commitment to the Global South and leadership in Rome from women with migrant and refugee backgrounds, a move was impending. The Philippines became the perfect choice. In the early 90s, the country was buzzing with activism, and the feminist movement was flourishing. Moreover, Marilee Karl and her husband had strong, long-standing ties with Filipino activists involved in the anti-Marcos dictatorship movement.

1996

Isis International Manila was given consultative status by the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), which we used to send grassroots women to participate in UN events and conferences.

2010

The Feminist Activist School was launched to continue supporting and strengthening feminist movement building to enhance the facilitative leadership of a new generation of feminist activists.

2019

Facilitating Spaces for Feminist Conversations

Io is known as the moon-goddess in Greek mythology and believed to be a transformation of the Egyptian goddess Isis, magical healer and role model for women. iO allows space for creating diverse feminist visions.