STRENGTH OF A WOMAN IN NATION BUILDING, by Lois Otse Adams

It all began on the 8 March 1857 in the United States of America when female textile workers walked the streets in New York to protest degradation and sexist subjugations in their work place. Again, women workers in the needle trades in March 8, 1908 marched through New York City’s Lower East Side to protest child labor, sweatshop working conditions, and demand women’s indiscriminate participation in politics and suffrage.

International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate the achievements of women and recognize their contributions to society. Women have played a vital role in building nations throughout history. From raising families and supporting their communities to fighting for their rights and advocating for change, women have been instrumental in shaping the societies we live in today.

Women have also made significant strides in various fields, including science, politics, arts, and economics, despite facing obstacles such as gender bias, discrimination, and unequal opportunities.

One of the significant roles that women play in society is in nation-building. Women’s contributions to building nations go beyond their traditional roles as caregivers and homemakers. Women are instrumental in driving economic growth, promoting social cohesion, and strengthening democratic institutions.

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In many countries, women constitute a significant portion of the labour force, contributing to various sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, and services. In some countries, women-owned businesses are driving economic growth and job creation. Women’s participation in the economy not only boosts GDP but also empowers them economically and socially, enabling them to contribute more to their families and communities.

Women’s role in social cohesion cannot be overemphasized. They are natural peacemakers and bridge builders. They bring people together and foster a sense of community. Women’s groups and organizations have been instrumental in promoting social cohesion and conflict resolution in many countries. Women-led movements have also played a crucial role in advancing human rights and social justice.

Their participation in politics and governance is vital for building democratic institutions. Women’s representation in parliament and other decision-making bodies is essential for ensuring that their voices are heard, and their needs are addressed. Also, their participation in politics has been linked to better governance, more responsive policies, and improved social outcomes.

Despite the significant contributions of women to nation-building, they continue to face significant challenges. Women still face discrimination and bias in many areas, including education, employment, and politics. Women also face higher rates of poverty and violence than men. Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts by governments, civil society, and the private sector to promote gender equality and empower women.

Empowering women is not only the right thing to do, but it is also essential for building a better future for everyone. When women are empowered, they can contribute more to their families and communities, drive economic growth, and promote social cohesion. Empowering women is also critical for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and building a more just and equitable world.

In addition to the points mentioned above, there are several other strengths of women in nation-building that should be highlighted. For instance, women are often more attuned to the needs of marginalized communities, including women, children, and minorities. This empathy and sensitivity can help ensure that policies and programs are designed to meet the needs of everyone, not just the privileged few.

Furthermore, women are often more invested in the long-term sustainability of their communities and countries. They are more likely to prioritize environmental conservation, social justice, and economic development that benefits everyone, not just a select few.

Finally, women are often excellent role models for future generations. By breaking barriers and achieving success in various fields, women inspire and empower young girls to dream big and pursue their aspirations. This is particularly important in developing countries, where girls face significant obstacles to accessing education and achieving their full potential.

On this International Women’s Day, let us recognize the strength of women in nation-building and recommit ourselves to empowering women and promoting gender equality. Let us work together to remove the barriers that hold women back and create a world where every woman has the opportunity to fulfill her potential and contribute to building a better future for all.

(Starsandstyles.ng)