International Women’s Day

In the midst of our era’s wonderous achievements, it remains disheartening that we still find the necessity to observe International Women’s Day. Reflecting on my early years, the persistent challenges from male and female superiors, colleagues, and clients served as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality. I battled the sexist men, education snobs of both genders, and the outright racists. Despite the strides we’ve made, even recent experiences underscore that the battle is far from won.

Throughout history, women have borne the weight of subjugation and shame, enduring outcomes ranging from despair to outright torture. From iconic figures like Joan of Arc and Rosa Parks to contemporary heroines like Billy Jean King, Patty Hearst, and countless women trapped in the clutches of discrimination. The examples are numerous.

Women have weathered more persecution than any other marginalized group, grappling with discrimination based on religion, economic inequities, limited educational opportunities, and formal legal subjugation. The absence of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) as law raises unsettling questions about the true consideration of women as equals, both legally and culturally.

In addition to external challenges, women often find themselves splintered as a collective, replaced by competition instead of camaraderie. A dire need exists for more mentorship and guidance among women, a passing down of hard-fought lessons to the emerging generation. For women to rise collectively, the shackles of jealousy must be discarded, paving the way for a united sisterhood.

Regrettably, some women feel obligated to adopt masculine traits to assert power, an unfortunate misrepresentation of strength. True power lies not in imitation but in being and loving one’s authentic self.

Crucially, men too play an important part in advancing gender equality. By avoiding the convenience of exploiting women, refraining from intellectual undermining, and recognizing the shared power between genders, they become allies in the ongoing fight for equality.

On this International Women’s Day, let us choose to honor both genders as equals, acknowledging the progress made while fervently advocating for a future where equality is not just an aspiration but an unassailable reality.