Articles on Women's Issues
Beauty Standards: Beauty becomes The Beast
By: Fatima Hashim
Nowadays beauty standards are what determine if a woman is worthy or not and it becomes a big problem. A woman's appearance affects how people view her as and it plays a part in her career. In the workplace she has to look put together to be taken seriously and spends hours getting ready while a man doesn't even have to try. This is very unfair. Social media and advertisements create unrealistic images of beauty which has ruined a woman's self esteem entirely. These standards have resulted in anxiety, low self-esteem, and low self-confidence in many women. Beauty is something that has become so unrealistic that it has turned into a monster.
Many studies have shown that advertisements and beauty standards are very harmful for women's emotions, expectations, self-esteem, health, eating habits, and much more. Women are trying to follow these beauty ideals and standards, which lead to several psychological disorders. Studies have shown that such standards and ideals can lead to psychological disorders like depression and eating disorders. These are very serious problems that the media and society has created for women. From a young age girls are exposed to images of what's considered “perfection”and then they start to not feel good about themselves and this affects women's mental health completely. The idea of beauty is considered to be flawless with no imperfections. This idea however is not logical. Companies are just using these ideas to create products to advertise to women so that they feel better about themselves if they use it and women believe they will look more attractive if they use these products but it's all just a gimmick for companies to make money.
So when does beauty really become the beast? When perceptions of beauty in the media interfere with your health and well being, and all it gives you is depression and stress. Then you should know that the title “beauty” is not worth it. You need to accept yourself for who you are and be true to yourself. You should never put your mental and physical health at stake for trying to fit into society. You should remember you are beautiful just the way you are and you don't have to change a thing.
References:
Body & beauty standards. Bradley University. (n.d.). Retrieved August 29, 2022, from https://www.bradley.edu/sites/bodyproject/standards/
DeFino, J. (2020, October 19). How white supremacy and capitalism influence beauty standards. Teen Vogue. Retrieved August 29, 2022, from https://www.teenvogue.com/story/standard-issues-white-supremacy-capitalism-influence-beauty#:~:text=Beauty%20standards%20are%20the%20individual,thus%2C%20succeed%20personally%20and%20professionally.
Edwards, V. V. (2022, June 17). Beauty standards: See how body types change through history. Science of People. Retrieved August 29, 2022, from https://www.scienceofpeople.com/beauty-standards/
Facebook.com/mariyamrocksforever. (2020, March 9). Psychological effects of beauty standards & how to deal with them. Beautyholic. Retrieved August 29, 2022, from https://thebeautyholic.com/psychological-effects-of-beauty-standards/
University of Washington. (n.d.). Retrieved August 29, 2022, from https://uw.manifoldapp.org/read/beauty-standards/section/cff23c1e-aced-4e24-b14e-25a2728170d3
Why is period poverty significant?
By: Maryam Shajahan
Period poverty is when females cannot afford or don’t have access to menstrual products. The lack of access to information on menstruation and the ability to take care of themselves is a major problem happening globally. Many people have to choose between buying food or menstrual products. This is a common issue in today's society as prices of menstruation products are also increasing.
Period poverty causes women to be unable to participate in daily activities such as going to school or working. It makes people feel shame for menstruating and causes emotional and mental challenges. Period poverty can lead to depression from the lack of menstruation products. Many women have reported using toilet paper, children's diapers, or clothes instead of proper period products. Some people use the same period product more than once and longer than required. Using these products for longer than necessary can be dangerous and cause infections. Having no period products causes women to be distracted and uncomfortable in the workforce. 73% of women miss work for 6 days a month due to no access to period products. This can also cause women to not go to school and risk their future potential for success.
500 million people in the world do not have access to menstrual products and hygiene facilities
It is estimated that Canadians who menstruate buy $6000 worth of period products in their lifetime
A quarter of Canadian women have reported struggling with being able to afford period products
10% of menstruating college students experience period poverty monthly
Only 12% of women in India have access to sanitary products
In the US, period products are considered “ nonessential goods “ as 30 states have a tax on period solutions
In the US, the tax on menstrual products is between 4.7% to 10% in 2019
Donate to charity
Donate period products
Educate yourself on the issue and hear other people's stories
Purchase period products from brands that help end period poverty such as Tampax and Always
Support brands that promote the ability to afford menstruation products and information about menstruation
Ensure a welcoming environment that is suitable for menstruating women
Period poverty can cause physical, emotional, and mental damage. More than half of the world's population menstruate monthly and this issue affects almost 500 million people worldwide. Many struggles to afford period products and have limited access to information on menstruation. It is time to make a change and end period poverty. We should encourage everyone to fight for period equity.
References
Geng, C. (2021, September 16). What is period poverty? Medical News Today. Retrieved August 26, 2022, from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/period-poverty#statistics
Michel, J., Mettler, A., Schönenberger, S., & Gunz, D. (2022, February 22). Period poverty: Why it should be everybody's business: Published in Journal of Global Health Reports. Journal of Global Health Reports. Retrieved August 26, 2022, from https://www.joghr.org/article/32436-period-poverty-why-it-should-be-everybody-s-business
Parraga, J. (n.d.). Period poverty. Rapport - Western University. Retrieved August 26, 2022, from https://www.schulich.uwo.ca/rapport/2020/topical/period_poverty.html#:~:text=Nearly%20a%20quarter%20of%20Canadian,lifetime%20on%20menstrual%20hygiene%20products.
Period poverty, stigma, and female hygiene gaps in the U.S. and around the world. Regis College Online. (2021, October 28). Retrieved August 26, 2022, from https://online.regiscollege.edu/blog/period-poverty/
Being a Woman living in Western society is already hard enough, but being a Muslim woman in Western society is burdensome. There are significant challenges and difficulties that many Muslim women and even girls have to face.
It’s said that beautiful things are often felt in the heart and not seen with the eyes. This is an excellent example of how we can’t see God, but we feel his existence deep down in our hearts. So this applies to how society views our Muslim Women. Even regarding men. Genuinely, we should feel like we’re of high status as a woman. I can relate to this along with my religion, Islam. In Islam, men are seen as the guardians of women. That does not mean that women are seen as any less than men. For indeed, what is being guarded is more precious than the one guarding it.
In Islam, there is no difference between men, and women as long as their relationship with God (Allah) is good. Sadly we women are not getting treated the way Islam wants us to. For example, the hijab ban in France. Earlier this year in France, the hijab was outlawed in sports competitions. This is a perfect example of the way western society misunderstands the meaning of the hijab and thereby discriminates against Muslim women. In fact, the hijab is a symbol of protection and honour that gives Muslim women a shield and a sense of being respected in society.
Furthermore, I want to mention Kim Kardashian, at the Met Gala. This event happened last year in 2021. She basically covered herself from head to toe, wearing all black. So my point is, if she can get praised and be respected for being covered fully head to toe, then why is it, that Muslim women are being oppressed when they cover themselves with the abaya or jilbab? How upsetting is it that influencers have become role models instead of the sahaba and the beautiful wives of our beloved Prophet (peace be upon him)?
To all the men out there; Please, treat your women with respect. Whether it's your mother, sister, wife or daughter, treat her kindly, treat her with respect and honour. This society might be corrupt, but we should still protect ourselves from deviation and falling into immorality in search of fleeting happiness.
References:
Hidden Heroes: Women in War
By: Fatema Siddika
We’ve all heard countless stories of the brave soldiers who left their homes and sacrificed their lives fighting on the frontlines for our countries. These men were praised endlessly for their courage and commitment to protecting us and are considered heroes to their country. But what about the women in these wars, who fought for their country from the sidelines by nursing and caring for the wounded? They were severely overlooked for their contribution during the wars and didn’t receive half the praise the men in combat did. Most of these women were young and went through the same training as the men, yet simply weren't allowed to participate on the frontlines and had to attend to the wounded as well as run the country while the men fought in battle .
Wars brought difficulties and grievances to the whole country and were challenging times for everyone. Men were required to fight on the frontlines and give their lives to protect their loved ones and country. Women had their fair share of trials and tribulations as well. When the war got heated, they would have to risk their lives by going onto the frontlines and bringing back soldiers to the camps in order to nurse them back to health. They were given limited medical equipment and had to witness many soldiers’ deaths. This put a heavy weight on their emotional stability and yet they still powered through and managed to assist the wounded in war.
These women not only treated soldiers and risked their lives by helping injured soldiers return to camp, but they also managed the country and economy with the lack of men. During these previous eras, , women were usually kept to household chores and childcare, but with all the men being drafted for war now, the women were taking hold of working the grounds and getting jobs to help. There were women working in factories, offices and even military air forces and bases.
Many women made their contributions through organisations like the British Red Cross and other volunteer services. They provided most of the medical aid to the nurses and women helping on the sidelines. Regardless of their sacrifices and efforts, these women were tremendously overlooked. History praises the men in war and speaks of their great contributions to our country yet the women have little to no recognition in most history books. These women were war heroes as well and deserve more respect for their valiant efforts alongside the soldiers.
References:
“Women and War.” The History Press, 2022, https://www.thehistorypress.co.uk/women-s-history/women-and-war/
“Women in World War I (U.S. National Park Service).” National Parks Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, 7 Apr. 2022, https://www.nps.gov/articles/women-in-world-war-i.htm#:~:text=They%20served%20as%20stenographers%2C%20clerks,the%20duration%20of%20the%20war.
Discrimination against women is when any sex-based differentiation, excluding, or restrictions that has the intention or effect of preventing women from expressing their political, economic, social, cultural, or civil rights equally with males. In this society Girls and women are the ones who experience the worst effects of gender norms and roles; they are more likely to have their freedom and mobility restricted; they are more likely to experience the extreme levels of abuse, violence and harassment that are experienced worldwide.
There are numerous reasons why women have been subject to discrimination. Uneven access to schooling comes first. Women still have less opportunities for education than males do globally. According to humanrights.com they say, “¼ of young women between 15-24 will not finish primary school.” This understanding is different for 58% of those who do not finish that basic education. They also mention that Two thirds of the world's uneducated people are women. Girls' futures and the chances they will have are greatly impacted when they are not educated to the same level as boys.
Secondly the lack of employment for women. Only six nations in the world, according to studies, allow women the same legal rights to employment as do men. In fact, women in most economies only have 3/4 of the rights which men do. A more level playing field in the workplace has a beneficial compounding effect on other areas subject to gender disparity.
Lastly, Job segregation.The division of labour is one of the factors contributing to discrimination against women in the workplace. There is an established assumption in most countries that men are just more capable of doing particular tasks. Those are typically the jobs with the highest salaries. Because of this inequality, women earn less money. Women are also primarily responsible for performing unpaid work, therefore even if women work in the paid employment, they perform extra tasks that are never paid for.
In conclusion, we must abandon outdated customs and mindsets. Everyone needs to learn about respect and equality, but boys particularly. Even though it takes a lot of work, it is achievable. We can cooperate to give both genders the same respect and chances.
Resources
How to challenge gender discrimination. Plan International. (2022, August 17). Retrieved September 13, 2022, from https://plan-international.org/girls-get-equal/challenging-gender-discrimination-a-how-to-guide/
Soken-Huberty, E. (2022, May 1). 10 causes of gender inequality. Human Rights Careers. Retrieved September 13, 2022, from https://www.humanrightscareers.com/issues/causes-gender-inequality/
By: Laiba Amjad
We live in a Country where everywhere (boys or girls) at least gets education till high school, but there are till this date many many countries where girls don't get education or knowledge because the society thinks that giving education to a girl is useless because eventually she will get married and her job is to be in the kitchen not on a job.
This thinking is absolutely wrong. Every person, doesn't matter boy or girl has a right to be educated and acquire knowledge.ne should always get at least the basic education and here is why:
A woman is the one who usually raises children in a household, and if she is not educated how will she be able to raise her children rightfully.
Education gives you confidence. It gives you the ability to move in this society with knowledge and humility.
Education gives you the knowledge of your self worth and self esteem.
By education, a women also gets to know her rights in islam which are usually ignored.
Many people blame islam for not allowing women to gain education and this is not the truth. The first verse of the quran which was revealed is: "Read in the name of your Lord who created, created man from a clinging form. Read! Your Lord is the Most Generous, who taught by means of the pen; taught man what he did not know. (96:1-5)"
This verse shows that Allah swt has ordered all of humankind to gain knowledge and education without the difference of gender.
Another example is of Aishah Binte Abu Bakr, the youngest wife of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), was very talented and possessed an incredible memory. As a Muslim scholar, she is credited with narrating more than two thousand Hadith and was noted for teaching eminent scholars. She had a great love for learning and became known for her intelligence and sharp sense of judgment. Her life also substantiates that a woman can be a scholar, exert influence over men and women and provide them with inspiration and leadership. The example of Aishah in promoting education, particularly education of women in the laws and teachings of Islam, is a hallmark in female education in Islam. Because of the strength of her personality, she was a leader in every field of knowledge, in society and in politics.
These evidence shows that islam highly encourages the education of women and the problem is in our society not in islam. Now how can we play a role as muslim women getting higher education to spread awareness about this matter?
Posting about this matter on social media and educating people about the rights of women.
Being examples ourselves by continuing our own studies to show that it's important for girls to get an education no matter where they live.
In conclusion, education is important for everyone without the split of gender and everyone has the right to gain knowledge in this world.
References:
The Importance of Girls’ Education in Islam
Facts about the Muslims & the Religion of Islam - Toll-free hotline 1-877-WHY-ISLAM
2017-12-1
By: Anjuma Begum
Child marriages unfortunately are a global issue. In Canada the minimum age for marriage across the country is 16 years old. In underdeveloped nations this issue is more extensive, girls as young as 14 years get robbed of their childhood because their parents get them married off.
What are the reasons for child marriage?...
Poverty girls and women are seen as financial burdens in their households compared to boys. Marrying their child off to someone can be used as a way to afford things for themselves. Girls are also wedded off to pay off debts or settle disagreements within or between families.
The effects of child marriage...
After these forced marriages, these young girls are expected to act like full grown women. However, in reality they´ve barely been able to experience what being a young girl really is. Not being able to make their own decisions, these girls are also supposed to clean, cook, and raise a family, when really she should be going to school and spending time being with close friends and family. Those who are in school are forced to drop out to fulfill the responsibilities of a housewife, such as starting and raising a family.
Forced marriages can really deteriorate the health of these girls when they are not really aware of their own body, not having been properly educated on this topic. Most of the time, these girls end up pregnant even though both emotionally and physically they aren't ready for such a phase in their life yet. This can also cause complications to both mother and child. Difficulty in pregnancy and childbirth is the leading cause of death globally among girls ages 15-19.
What can help:
- Empowering and educating families on the dangers of child marriages
- Petitioning government and motivating supportive laws to be enforced
- If you know someone going through this, file a complaint for domestic violence
References:
Owen, J. (2021, August 16). Child marriage: Facts and how to help. World Vision Canada. Retrieved September 8, 2022, from https://www.worldvision.ca/stories/gender-equality/child-marriage-facts-and-how-to-help#7
Child and forced marriage, including in humanitarian settings. OHCHR. (n.d.). Retrieved September 8, 2022, from https://www.ohchr.org/en/women/child-and-forced-marriage-including-humanitarian-settings#:~:text=C hild%20marriage%20is%20any%20marriage,free%20consent%20to%20the%20union.
Buitenbos, D. (n.d.). 5 ways to end child marriage . Plan Canada site. Retrieved September 8, 2022, from https://plancanada.ca/stories/5-ways-to-end-child-marriage
Domestic Abuse and Gender-Based Violence
By: Muntaha Ahmed
GBV (Gender-Based Violence) is any act that results in physical, mental or sexual harm. Violence against women can happen in families, between friends or spouses and even strangers. For example,. during The Montreal massacre , a misogynistic man entered a university with the sole intent to kill women. Ending violence and abuse against women is vital and urgent because it costs lives.
Domestic abuse is commonly known to be physical and sexual. This occurs when an overpowering and controlling partner feels the need to bring harm to the other. In a physical matter, the body receives the harm that is inflicted In a sexual matter, rape and sexually transmitted diseases are given to the victim. The abuse does not always have to involve bodily contact with the victim. Verbal abuse can also greatly affect women in a violent way. Verbal abuse or belittling, name calling, insulting, and generally speaking in a criticizing manner can have a long term effect. Even after the physical bruises have healed, mental scars can still impact victims many years later .
Abuse of any form shouldn’t be tolerated by anyone as it is also a violation of human rights. Women shouldn’t have to suffer or be harmed just because they are women.
References:
In this article, I want to talk about a very serious and huge problem that is happening to almost every girl in this world especially teenagers. Now a lot of girls wish to be in the best shape and get slim bodies and theirs a lot of influencers like BlackPink a lot of girls wanna get a body like theirs and think it’s nice and makes them look better. a lot of girls are getting body shamed by other people whether at school, in public, and even on social media so this makes them wanna eat less and lose a lot of weight to look skinner and better, and girls that are overweighted are ugly and their not in the perfect body. The point of this article is to tell many girls that no matter how skinny or overweight you are it’s not gonna make you any better or any worse, all girls look beautiful in their own ways it’s not about the body being skinny does make you prettier and not being fat make you uglier. love yourself and your body, and what people talk about and your body is not a problem with you because the way you look and the way your body is doesn't make you a good person or a bad person.
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