It’s clear that American society has made strides toward a more gender-equitable world, but it’s also apparent that plenty of progress is yet to come. From the gender bias that has permeated through generations to securing adequate sex education, we’ll look at major issues women still face today.
Sexism and Gender Bias
Corporations, large and small, have shifted to become more inclusive and diverse. By adopting departments such as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and employing more rigorous human resources standards, companies continue to establish environments that help women thrive.
It’s inarguable that the efforts of businesses around the world have made waves. However, ancient gender stereotypes and patriarchal societal structures still pose obstacles and glass ceilings for women in the workplace. There is still plenty of progress to come until the playing field is leveled in currently male-dominated fields.
Representation in Decision-Making Roles
Women are now more prevalent in authoritative positions, but it’s taken many decades to get here. Though we can proudly acknowledge the first Madam Vice President, we’re still striving toward greater representation in decision-making roles.
The lack of representation in law-making positions has been especially apparent in conversations surrounding reproductive rights. Discussions over contraceptives and abortion and their legality often take place with an underwhelming ratio of women’s perspectives.
Domestic Abuse
Domestic violence is a major issue many women still face today, though men also experience this problem. Domestic abuse is most prevalent for women ages 18–34, and it does not look any one way.
There are various types of domestic abuse—physical, mental, emotional—that may cause an individual to flee from their residence. Consider finding ways to support your local women’s shelter to uplift those without home security due to domestic violence.
Sex Education and Teen Pregnancy
You may have seen a reality TV show or two on what it’s like to be a teen mom. Teen pregnancy continues to hold a stigma for the harsh realities it can impose on young mothers—a pregnancy can disrupt a teen’s education and create overwhelming financial pressure.
Sex education and teen pregnancy will remain an important topic of discussion in women’s health, as they can have an inverse relationship. The more sex education resources we provide to teens, the more potential there is for lowering the teen pregnancy rate.
