Women Vendors in Chile Stand Against Classism as Camila Flores Derides Colleague with ‘Market Lady’ Insult

Original article: “Alimentamos Chile”: mujeres feriantes enfrentan el clasismo de Camila Flores tras usar “señora de feria” como descalificación

Senator Camila Flores (RN) made headlines with her derogatory remark calling her colleague, Fabiola Campillai (Independent), a «market lady.» This statement ignited widespread backlash that transcends political boundaries, directly impacting one of the foundational sectors of Chile’s popular economy, as women vendors stood up against classism and emphasized their role in «feeding Chile.»

Amid discussions regarding a proposal for a general pardon for military personnel convicted of actions during the 2019 social upheaval, both lawmakers clashed, with Flores asserting: «She revealed her background, market lady.»

The National Confederation of Free Fairs (ASOF) responded to these comments, demanding that the classism embedded in using such language as an insult must be eradicated.

«As a vendor community, we were hurt to hear the term ‘market lady’ used as a put-down,» stated Paola Morales, president of ASOF.

The leader asserted that the identity of market vendors is a source of pride, not shame, vehemently rejecting the notion of using their profession as a social stigma.

In her view, Flores’ comments reveal «a profound ignorance» of the reality faced by thousands of women who, for generations, have made their trade a crucial pillar of the country’s food supply.

«If anyone thinks calling a woman a ‘market lady’ is an insult, it shows a deep misunderstanding of who we are. Being a market lady is a point of pride,» she affirmed.

«If we are called ‘market ladies,’ we accept it with pride»

For the leader, being a market lady is not a disparagement, but a title reflecting perseverance and skill in supporting a family.

«If we are called ‘market ladies,’ we accept it with pride because behind those words lies decades of honest work, sacrifice, and love for our communities (…). It means rising when the rest of the country sleeps, working under rain, cold, or heat, carrying tons of goods, serving with a smile, and returning home to continue being mothers, grandmothers, caregivers, and heads of household,» the leader expressed.

«Women vendors have built, over generations, a legacy of work, effort, and commitment to their families, neighborhoods, and Chile’s food security,» she noted in statements reported by Radio ADN.

«This history deserves respect, not contempt,» she emphasized.

Beyond selling food, Morales highlighted that the role of these women is essential in the social fabric of their neighborhoods.

«We are merchants, but we are also advisors, confidants, and part of the social structure of our neighborhoods,» Morales pointed out.

The organization also focused on the harsh working conditions these women have historically faced. Many of these workers raised their children among crates of fruits and vegetables, balancing long hours with caring for the little ones. ASOF presents this reality as a testament to resilience, where daily effort has become a life lesson for younger generations who grew up understanding the value of honest work.

Finally, the confederation’s call aims to elevate public and political discourse and demands that the identity of female workers not be used as a means of denigration.

«Women vendors feed Chile. We are entrepreneurs, managers, tireless workers, and support a significant part of the family economy in our country,» asserted the ASOF president.

«We hope that our identity is never used as an insult again (…). We are part of the history of Chile and will continue to be part of its future,» she emphasized.