With all of the political and economic issues going on in America, it’s hard to remember that there are much bigger things going on out there. There are countries trapped in violent civil wars, drugs trafficking and people are dying every day.  

This is where We Women Warriors comes into play. It opens our eyes (and hearts) to the truly dangerous issues going on in Colombia. There’s a civil conflict between three groups, the actual Colombian government, paramilitary groups and guerilla fighters.

We Women Warriors isn’t preachy or overly violent. Instead, it takes us to those who Colombia’s very confusing war hurts the most: the wives and mothers left to take care of families and sometimes, entire villages. Although the men are the ones that perish in this war, women are the ones that have to bury them and try to survive. They’re the real momma grizzlies Sarah Palin is always talking about.

While watching director Nicole Karsin’s film, I realized just how silly our fractured bi-partisan issues must seem to the outside world. We fight about basically everything at this point. But none of our problems seem to compare to what happens to the women in these areas of Colombia. Soldiers haven't taken up residence in your street. These women are in danger of being raped by various types of soldiers daily. Children become part of the unfortunate collateral damage. But these very strong ladies are dealing with it… And are somehow smiling through.   

Throughout the documentary, each woman grows into a leader in her aboriginal community. They can withstand death threats, imprisonment and military barracks. And often enough they can find solace and strength in other women. They form weaving circles and collectives. It seems that these women’s bonds are just as close as the stitches they create.

If you’re looking to just chill out and watch a popcorn flick, then this isn’t the movie for you (everything is subtitled). But if you want a movie that will make you think, this is it.  Afterwards, you’ll definitely appreciate everything you have. If you started We Women Warriors thinking your job sucks or your partner is getting on your nerves, by the end you’ll be so very grateful. 

IFC is screening We Women Warriors as a part of its DocuWeek, starting on August 10. If you want to catch a screening, visit IFC  to purchase tickets.

Images courtesy of We Women Warriors on Facebook and IFC