"The story of women's struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organization but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights"
—Gloria Steinem
International Women's Day is celebrated in many countries around the world. It is a day when women are recognized for their achievements without regard to divisions, whether national, ethnic, linguistic, cultural, economic or political. It is an occasion for looking back on past struggles and accomplishments, and more importantly, for looking ahead to the untapped potential and opportunities that await future generations of women.Woman is the companion of man, gifted with equal mental capacity...If by strength is meant moral power, then woman is immeasurably man's superior...If non-violence is the law of our being, the future is with women...
—Mahatma Gandhi
ABOUT INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY
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| Chronology |
The woman's 'place' was in the home, wifehood and motherhood being the most significant positions. Educational and job opportunities were scarce, often non-existent for a woman. It appeared her role in society was set in stone and forget the right to vote! Women just did not measure up. The struggles for women's suffrage occurred within societies not limited to any one race, religion, or country. This was a global battle which has not been completely won in all parts of the world.
Finally in the beginning of the 20th century, women's contribution and traditional views on their roles in society were reevaluated. A long time coming and well deserved! Can you imagine living in an era when you were never viewed as a creative source of life? You simply existed to serve.
International Women's Day is a time to reflect on progress made, to call for change and to celebrate acts of courage and determination by ordinary women who have played an extraordinary role in the history of their countries and communities. After all, when women have been allowed personal and intellectual freedom, they have made phenomenal achievements!
Utopia?
(17th Century Woman)
The role of the woman was strict obedience to her
husband
—bound to serve, love, and obey—
with work revolving very much around the home.
Time away from the home was limited to church.
—bound to serve, love, and obey—
with work revolving very much around the home.
Time away from the home was limited to church.
A bird locked in a cage
Has no room to fly
All sense of adventure
Tucked away to die
Swinging back and forth
No expanse of its wings
What message is relayed
When this little bird sings?
Plenty of water
Seeds always abound
No worries, no frets
Feet never touch ground
I’m like this little bird
Back and forth within my house
Mending, cooking, cleaning
With credence quiet as a mouse
Travels abroad
Are not mine to explore
Chances of fortune
Do not knock at my door
Excluded from higher education
Puts me in the back of the crowd
Shut out of power or authority
No civil employment allowed
My utopia: a cage
So, who do I pronounce to be?
Woman without liberty
Secretly plotting to be free
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