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| Mosuo Women - Courtesy: The Guardian |
When humans started living in groups, the Matriarchal and
patriarchal societies evolved based on the economic and social needs. In Lugu Lake in South West China one can
find the remnant of a matriarchal society even today. The Mosuo tribe carries the
tradition of empowering women and the property is handed down to the women. In
Meghalaya, the North Eastern State in India, Garo tribe is another example
where women own the land in this unique matriarchal society.
By and large these examples are
exceptions. It is not that we need either of the extremes but a more
egalitarian society where everyone is treated and respected as a human being.
Political empowerment began with
women's suffrage movement. Few noted examples are:
August 26,
1920 - 19th amendment. Ballots were given to women in the USA
1918 - Britain
granted voting rights to women above 30. In 1928 women and men were considered
equal for voting rights.
Interestingly, France granted the ballot
to women only in 1944. French women had to wait for a long time after Voltaire
proclaimed Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity!
There are many women who have pioneered to
overcome the gender, racial, occupational, educational, political bias that
formed a barrier. Today is the day to salute all women who have touched one's
life in one way or the other.
HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN's Day!
PEACE ON EARTH
All content copyright © by Sobana Iyengar.
