Distinction "23rd Of August".

[Taz]

In 1960, soon after the victory of the Cuban revolution, diverse women’s organizations fused into a unique organization – the Federation of Cuban Women (FMC) – to develop policies and programs to achieve the full exercise of woman’s equality in all social milieus.
Since then, the advancements of Cuban women under socialism are unquestionable. Today, in addition to their higher participation in the labor force, women constitute 36 percent of the members of parliament, 62 percent of university graduates, and more than 33 percent of managers.
Women in Cuba enjoy recognized sexual and reproductive rights, universal and free health care and education systems, special programs for maternity and child protection, programs to promote their quality of life, as well as cultural and social support. Their life expectancy is 76.8 years and infant mortality is six per thousand live births.
The FMC has 3.8 million affiliated women organized into 76,000 grassroots organizations all over the country. The only requirements for membership are being female and older than 14 years of age.

[Esteban_cool]

It says "Federation of Cuban Women"(which makes me think it is a "ladies only" medal), but why is it awarded?

[Taz]

It is a female rights related Medal for service in seeking womens equality and rights. On August 23, 1960, the Federation of Cuban Women was officially created giving this Medal its name. Awarded for outstanding service to the FMC.

Objectives of the FMC

Defend the Cuban Revolution that has made and makes women's achievements possible.

Fight for the full incorporation, participation and promotion of women in the economic, political, social and cultural life in Cuba based on equal rights and opportunities.

Strengthen the ideological and political work and form ethical and moral values in children, the family, in schools and society.

Intensify the development of non-sexist education at all levels of society.

Spread the gender perspective in all spheres of Cuban society as a means for analysis and planning economic and social projects.

Carry out a strategy for the promotion of women to management levels, including decision-making positions.

Direct the National Commission for preventing violence to women.

Encourage the participation of women in economic programs.

Carry out social research with the aim of diagnosing and finding solutions for the problems of women, in liaison with the appropriate institutions.

Establish and maintain links with women's organizations and institutions all over the world.

Participate actively in the international organizations and bodies devoted to women's issues.

[CtahhR]

Here is another example.
Cuban Female life expectancy is now 80 years old.

[CtahhR]

Here is a Type 2.

[CtahhR]

Another Type 1.

[CtahhR]

The Ribbon Bar.

[CtahhR]

Here is another Type 1, that seems to have had some wear.

[CtahhR]

The Ribbon Bar, which also seems to have had plenty of exposure to the sun.

[CtahhR]

Awarded to Eloisa R. Suárez García on 18th July 2000 by Order #140. This is a single year Type Document for 2000.