Tomorrow is International Women’s Day. Sometimes I get frustrated that we have to single out women as a special group – I just want to be equal, not separate.
However, today I choose to reflect on the fact that tomorrow is not “Canadian Women’s Day” it is “International” Women’s Day and that makes a difference.
I, for those who are unaware, am a woman. I’m the owner of our Law Firm. I’m also a wife and mother. I decided if I wanted to marry my husband and together we decided when and how many children I wanted to have.
In focusing on the “International” aspect of tomorrow’s Women’s Day, I’m going to focus on how different things would be if I was not Canadian, living in Canada.
I understand that in many parts of the world, I could not own a Law Firm.
I understand that in many parts of the world I could not be a lawyer.
I understand that in many parts of the world going to school would be risking death.
I understand that in some parts of the world I am not allowed to vote.
I understand that in some parts of the world I have to cover my hair in order to step outside.
I understand that in some parts of the world I am not allowed to drive.
I understand that in some parts of the world I am not allowed to be outside without a Male family member chaperoning me.
I understand that in some parts of the world Male family members would decide who and when I would marry.
I understand that in some parts of the world I would not eat if there was no food left after the men ate.
I understand I am fortunate to be a woman living in Canada.
I hope that one day “International Women’s Day” is as unnecessary as “Canadian Women’s Day” would be.