Women: Helpful Hints

Women have made gradual progress over time, such as the right to vote (suffrage) and own property. Imagine what progress we can make in this new century!

Remember that every country has its own customs and beliefs. These must be addressed with care when fighting injustices against women.

The way men treat women is usually a learned concept from society and their fathers. To reverse this, we need to teach our sons and young men that women are equal to men.

The standard of living for women varies from country to country.

By starting a dialog with friends, family, and people in your community about the inequalities women face around the world, you can raise awareness and help combat these issues.

Not everyone will listen to you or agree with you when you assert that women are equal. Sometimes it is best to just thank them for their time and move on.

There is a famous saying by Laurel Thatcher Ulrich: “Well-behaved women never made history.” This is very true: by following the double standards set against women, we will not change anything; we have to dare to be different and go against the rules.

Sometimes it may not be safe to act. In that case, you may wish to locate a group or organization that can help you act in a more safe manner.

Female genital mutilation is not just an issue in developing countries; it also occurs in the United States, the United Kingdom, and other developed countries.

Microcredit, or the giving of very small loans, can help poor women establish their own businesses and help them to begin to earn a living on their own.

A person cannot get help by doing nothing. If you or a friend needs help to start a company, get out of an abusive situation, or with something else, use the websites in “Favorite Links” in the For Women section and reach out!

The fact that women are more ahead in some countries than others may seem discouraging, but it is important to remember that those women were much farther behind at one point in history.

It always helps to be knowledgeable about the issues.

Teaching boys respect is not enough on its own; we must also teach girls to respect and believe in themselves.

We cannot let race, religion, or any other trait divide us; as women, if we stick together, we have a better chance of winning equality.

Though women are different all over the world, they are also very similar: they all have the power to create life, make a positive difference, and care for themselves and the people they love. They all deserve to exercise this power, and they all deserve equality.

Like any movement, peaceful action is the best way to empower women. Violence and negative action only serve to tarnish the images of people fighting for their freedom.

While many women may not be interested in politics, it is vital to act politically and elect people who will support women. Voting is one of the strongest rights and it allows women to take action. In most countries, women can even run for office.

Politicians sometimes try to trick women into voting for things that actually harm women. Research any legislative act or person that you will be voting for and make sure you know exactly who are what you are voting for.

Women in developed countries may have men tell them that they are already equal; this is simply not true. (Use the facts in this section to support your arguments with people who tell you this.)

It is essential that countries help one other to obtain equality for all women. Some may argue that it is “none of their business,” but all countries have leaned on another at some point — and equality is a global issue.

Opportunities for empowerment can occur anywhere, so always be alert. You may meet your next business associate or child care provider today!

Women’s empowerment and feminism, or the belief that women should be equal, does not mean “men-hating.” These are simply tools that can be used to work toward women being equal to men.

Treat everyone well and equally to encourage them to treat you the same way.

Even the smallest act can create a ripple effect. Do not underestimate yourself or your power to create change.