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We celebrate National Women’s Day in commemoration of the brave women who marched their way to the Union Buildings in Pretoria in 1956 to protest against the carrying of pass books.
These heroines united in a fight against a cruel and oppressive system, leaving a message that rings loud and clear: You strike a woman, you strike a rock.
The role of women in the world has evolved from meek and timid to vocal and resilient.
Here’s a snapshot of how life for women has changed for the better over years.
- No contraception or abortion allowed
Branded as ‘immoral’ and ‘promoting prostitution’ by those opposed to it, birth control was eventually approved in 1960. However, it was available only for married women and still likened to abortion. In 1967 it was legalised for women of all backgrounds, married or not. Abortion was eventually legalised in 1973 across all states in the United States.
- Daddy had to sign for a bank account – no matter her age
Even if she earned more than her husband or father, a bank could reject a woman’s application for an account or loan. She was required to have the signature of her husband – if married – or the signature of her dad if she was single. This law was eventually changed in 1974 under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, which stated that a woman couldn’t be denied a credit or bank card based on her gender.
- No maternity leave
Believe it or not, being pregnant could have cost you your job some 40 years ago. It wasn’t until the Pregnancy Discrimination Act came into power in 1978 that maternity leave was granted to expecting women in the workplace.
- Serving on a jury was off-limits
Women were considered too ‘fragile’ to hear gruesome details of a crime. They were also deemed too compassionate to be capable of objectively deciding on a case. But in 1973 this all changed when women in the United States were finally allowed to serve on the jury in all 50 states.
- Run a marathon
Running the Boston Marathon in America used to be strictly a men's-only event. It wasn’t until 1972 that women were allowed to enter the race as well.
Sources: metro.co.uk, edition.cnn.com, littlethings.com
