Copyright 2024 Rebecca Nietert
Over the past six decades, significant strides have been made towards gender equality. However, female oppression has persisted as an insidious and multifaceted issue. This written hypothesis will delve into the restrictions women faced, the dependence on men, the perception of women leaders, and the contrasting criticisms they endure. By shedding light on these enduring challenges, we can contribute to the ongoing dialogue for achieving true gender parity.
Historical Restrictions on Women: Throughout history, women have faced numerous restrictions, limiting their opportunities and autonomy. Over the past 60 years, women were commonly denied access to higher education, employment opportunities, and positions of power. They were often expected to conform to traditional gender roles, prioritizing domestic responsibilities and childcare. The fight for women’s rights during this era encompassed fighting against discriminatory practices such as unequal pay, limited reproductive rights, and gender-based violence.
Throughout the formation of the United States, women experienced various forms of oppression, which eventually led to the creation of laws aimed at protecting their rights. These laws were necessary because women did not initially have the same rights as men. For instance, it wasn’t until the 1980s that women were legally allowed to purchase a home without the signature of a man.
As we delve into the list of oppressions faced by women, it becomes evident that our foremothers and ancestors played a significant role in shaping the contemporary woman we see today. Their efforts in challenging the existing norms have had a profound impact on gender equality, and their struggle should not be overlooked.
It is important to understand the historical context in which these laws were created. By acknowledging the magnitude of these injustices, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the progress made and the importance of continuing to strive for equal rights for all.
Dependence on Men: Within patriarchal societies, women were often expected to rely on men for economic stability, legal protection, and social validation. In the not-too-distant past, women needed male consent or sponsorship to open a bank account, secure loans, or even participate in certain sports. Societal norms pressured women to prioritize marriage and motherhood, perpetuating their dependence on male counterparts for societal acceptance and support.
Perception of Women Leaders: The world’s view of women leaders has evolved slowly but perceptibly over the past 60 years. Historically, women in leadership positions faced undue scrutiny, skepticism, and resistance due to entrenched gender biases. However, today, women leaders are increasingly recognized as competent, capable, and influential. Nevertheless, gender biases still persist, and women in leadership roles continue to face double standards and biases that their male counterparts do not encounter.
Criticism of Female Leaders vs. Male Leaders: Criticism of female leaders often takes a gendered tone, focusing on appearance, emotions, and other attributes unrelated to their abilities or performance. Female leaders are frequently subjected to harsher scrutiny and more personal attacks compared to male leaders. This gender bias can undermine the reputation and effectiveness of women leaders, inhibiting their ability to enact meaningful change. Male leaders, on the other hand, tend to face criticism centered more on policy decisions or performance in their respective roles.
While progress has undeniably been made in the past 60 years, female oppression continues to persist in various forms. Women were historically denied access to education, employment, and positions of power. The reliance on men for validation and support further contributed to the gender inequalities women faced. Although perceptions of women leaders have evolved, prejudices and double standards persist, resulting in disproportionate criticism based on gender. To achieve gender equality, society must continue to challenge outdated norms, confront bias, and provide equal opportunities for women to participate and lead in various spheres. Only by dismantling the barriers of oppression can we create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
NOTE: Of course this blog is about biological females, because any man, pretending to be one is slapping every woman in the face and her mother before her and her mothers before that signify that our fight means absolutely nothing.
Reba Nietert 