Daily Frameworks for 21 January 2024

Jamál, 03 Sulțán (Sovereignty), 180 B.E.

Arising to Serve

Quote for Reflection:

In this Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh, the women go neck and neck with the men. In no movement will they be left behind. Their rights with men are equal in degree. They will enter all the administrative branches of politics. They will attain in all such a degree as will be considered the very highest station of the world of humanity and will take part in all affairs. Rest ye assured. Do ye not look upon the present conditions; in the not far distant future the world of women will become all-refulgent and all-glorious, For His Holiness Bahá’u’lláh Hath Willed It so! At the time of elections the right to vote is the inalienable right of women, and the entrance of women into all human departments is an irrefutable and incontrovertible question. No soul can retard or prevent it. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ¹

Question for Consideration:

What are some of the beliefs and attitudes prevalent in today’s society that will have to change if women are to assume an equal position with men in all fields of endeavor? ²

Google Bard Response:

The quote by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá paints a powerful vision of a future where women fully participate in all aspects of society, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with men in every domain. However, this vision remains unrealized in many parts of the world. To bridge this gap, several prevalent beliefs and attitudes need to change:

Gender stereotypes and biases:

• Fixed gender roles: The idea that men are naturally suited for specific fields (e.g., leadership, STEM) while women are fit for others (e.g., childcare, domestic work) needs to be challenged. These rigid roles limit opportunities for both genders and perpetuate inequalities.
• Implicit bias: Unconscious biases against women in hiring, promotion, and other decision-making processes must be addressed through education and awareness campaigns. These biases can manifest subtly, but their cumulative effect hinders women’s advancement.
• Sexual objectification and harassment: The normalization of viewing women primarily as objects of physical attraction and the prevalence of sexual harassment in workplaces and public spaces create a hostile environment and limit women’s sense of safety and confidence.
  

Structural and institutional barriers:

• Unequal access to education and healthcare: Lack of access to quality education and healthcare for girls and women limits their ability to compete on a level playing field and perpetuates cycles of poverty and disadvantage.
• Gender pay gap and economic inequalities: The persistent wage gap between men and women for similar work, coupled with limited access to financial resources and credit, hinders women’s economic independence and participation in the workforce.
• Discriminatory laws and policies: Laws and policies that discriminate against women based on their gender, such as restrictions on reproductive rights or unequal inheritance laws, need to be challenged and reformed to create a just society.
  

Cultural and societal norms:

• Male dominance and patriarchy: The ingrained cultural norms that prioritize men over women in families, communities, and public life need to be dismantled and replaced with values of gender equality and respect.
• Violence against women: The pervasive issue of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other forms of violence against women needs to be addressed through awareness campaigns, legal reforms, and support systems for survivors.
• Negative social attitudes towards female leadership: Societal anxieties and prejudices against women in leadership positions must be confronted and overcome. Women must be supported and encouraged to take on leadership roles in all spheres of life.
  

Individual mindsets and behaviors:

• Internalized sexism: Women themselves may internalize negative stereotypes and limit their aspirations and ambitions based on societal expectations. Challenging these internalized beliefs and fostering self-confidence is crucial for women’s empowerment.
• Lack of male allies: Men have a critical role to play in dismantling gender inequality by actively advocating for women’s rights, challenging sexist behavior, and promoting gender equality in their own lives and workplaces.
• Collective action and systemic change: Achieving true gender equality requires not just individual efforts but also collective action and systemic change. Supporting organizations working for women’s rights, engaging in activism, and advocating for policy changes are essential steps toward a more equitable future.
  

This is not an exhaustive list, and the specific challenges will vary depending on the context and cultural background. However, addressing these beliefs and attitudes through education, awareness, and collective action is crucial for creating a world where women can truly take their rightful place alongside men in all fields of endeavor.

It’s important to remember that progress toward gender equality is a continuous process, and setbacks are inevitable. However, by remaining committed to the vision of a just and equitable society where all individuals can thrive, we can continue to work towards making ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s vision a reality.

1. ʻAbduʼl-Bahá. Paris Talks: Addresses Given by ʻAbduʼl-Bahá in 1911. Wilmette, Ill: Baháʼí Publishing Trust, 2006, 182-183. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/paris-talks/7#966841693. ↩
2. Ruhi Institute. Arising to Serve. 2.1.1.PE September 2020. Vol. Book 2. 6 vols. Embarking on a Path of Service. Cali, Columbia: Ruhi Foundation, 2020, 28-29. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩