The notion that it is wholly an issue of ethics or morality to promote women’s status globally is insufficient.
Predicated on the fact that a reoccurring theme woven into all issues I’ve discussed in my columns pertain to women, it is poignant to illustrate just how essential “women’s issues” are to states’ interests and overall global well being.
Brooklyn Middleton / Assistant Opinion Editor
There needs to be a disclaimer that the phrase “women’s issues” is inherently problematic; the assertion that issues affecting all of humanity are solely “women’s” is not just dismissive, but provides an easy justification for total inertia by people who are not, in fact, women.
Furthermore, should the graduating class and future graduating classes want to truly orchestrate social change and implement initiatives that promote equality and progression – women do not just need to be a part of their conversation, they need to be the entire conversation.
There is no greater ripple effect produced, universally, than that of a wanted and planned child being born into the world.
This intentionally oversimplified statement should be the mantra of every developed or underdeveloped nation.
The World Health Organization reports every year that women who have the resources and education to plan motherhood have far better health than those who do not.
Equally important, in regions where reproductive health is promoted and resources are ensured there are lower levels of infant and maternal mortality.
There is a strong, direct correlation between girls and women’s access to birth control and their education, as well as their children’s educations.
This cannot be overemphasized; if you want to change the world, support organizations and initiatives that encourage reproductive health and an increase in access to birth control.
Our era is experiencing unprecedented changes. We have never been so globally connected as we are in this moment.
The ramifications of the Arab Spring are still unfolding, and, closer to home, the United States is experiencing a sort of identity crisis as it seeks to be a leader in, well, almost everything, but continues to appoint lawmakers that insist on pushing forward legislation that marginalizes women.
It is not just a poetic catchphrase that we should look at the status of women to gauge the prosperity of the nation – it is a concept that has been proved repeatedly – though one that is paradoxically forgotten constantly.
Email at brooklyn.middleton@fiusm.com.
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