Recognition for Women: Progress Made

March 8 is...

"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

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

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. 

ABOUT INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

Chronology

There is a tremendous amount of history leading to the recognition of the intelligence and talents of women with provisions of equality to men. Throughout the annals of history women have had fewer legal rights and career opportunities than men. 

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.

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