Why was it important to the women to actually make shirts themselves?

For the women, making shirts themselves was a critical act of empowerment and self-sufficiency. It allowed them to reclaim their labor and contribute actively to their families and communities, fostering a sense of pride and purpose. Additionally, the process of creating something tangible together helped build solidarity and strengthen their collective identity. Ultimately, it was a way to assert their agency in a world that often marginalized their contributions.