Chasing Windmills

by Maya Butalid

A fascinating collection of stories following the journey of Maya Butalid, born in 1957 in Cebu City, Philippines. When studying at the University of the Philippines she became a Philippine political activist against the Marcos dictatorship. She was sent to the Netherlands to work as an activist from 1983-1993. Here she learnt Dutch and graduated from Tilburg University with a Master's in Psychology.Maya courageously tells of the challenges of living as a migrant in a foreign country, marriage and bringing up her Filipino daughters in the Netherlands and her various undertakings to help with the refugee crises around the world. She describes the beautiful and challenging walking routes of the Four Days Marches of Nijmegen to raise awareness and funds for refugees and her brave battle with cancer.Maya, to this day, is continuing with her efforts to contribute to the development of the Philippines.

238 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 10, 2022

Reviews

[Nazzy Jong · Rating 5 out of 5]

A moving and inspiring memoir about activism, migration, and resilience. Maya Butalid’s journey—from student activist in the Philippines to migrant, mother, and advocate in the Netherlands—shows how commitment to justice can evolve but never fade. I especially appreciated her honesty about the struggles of living abroad, raising a family between cultures, supporting refugees, and even facing cancer with courage. It’s a heartfelt reminder that activism can truly be a lifelong calling.

[Paula Dalangin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first time reading a memoir infused with political and social realities. That’s what made the book engaging: how it blends anecdotes of the writer with a broader concept concerning politics and society. The reflections from this book were resonating for me, how it jumps from migration to family and identity. It’s a light read, reflective and moving, as the author shows her desire to contribute to the country while being far from home through the written passages.