Feminine Wiles for Equity

I am taking back the term “feminine wiles”. In society this phrase typically refers to some femme fatale, seducing a man to do her bidding. But what if this concept was bastardized in an effort to hold women down? A quick Google search will offer a less gender-biased definition that I can get behind: clever tricks that somebody uses in order to get what they want or to make somebody behave in a particular way. What if feminine wiles are simply ways women use their skills to achieve power in their lives? Is this so bad? If the same was said of a male counterpart, would society be as judgmental?

Women across the globe encounter numerous inequities that hinder their progress in various aspects of life. From economic and educational barriers to social and political obstacles, these disparities can be overwhelming. However, women possess incredible resilience and have the power to push back against these inequities. By employing strategic actions and leveraging available resources (i.e. their feminine wiles), women can drive change and create a more equitable society for themselves and future generations. Here are several strategies for women to challenge and overcome the inequities they face.

1. Educate and Empower Yourself

Knowledge is Power

Understanding your rights and the inequities you face is the first step towards challenging them. Educate yourself about gender equality issues, legal rights, and available resources. Organizations like UN Women and local advocacy groups often provide valuable information and support.

Skill Development

Invest in your personal and professional development. Acquire new skills, seek further education, and stay updated with industry trends. Enhanced skills and knowledge not only boost confidence but also increase your marketability and opportunities for advancement.

2. Advocate for Equal Opportunities

Speak Up

Use your voice to highlight inequities in your workplace, community, and society. Whether it’s addressing wage gaps, advocating for better healthcare, or challenging discriminatory practices, vocalizing these issues is crucial. Encourage open dialogues and push for transparency in policies and practices.

Join or Form Advocacy Groups

Collective action amplifies individual voices. Join existing advocacy groups or form new ones focused on gender equality. Collaborate with like-minded individuals to create awareness campaigns, lobby for policy changes, and support each other in the fight against inequities.

3. Leverage Legal and Policy Tools

Know Your Legal Rights

Familiarize yourself with the legal protections available to you in your country. This includes rights related to employment, education, healthcare, and protection against violence. Understanding the legal framework helps in identifying when your rights are being violated and knowing the avenues for recourse.

Engage in Policy Advocacy

Advocate for policy changes that promote gender equality. This could involve lobbying for legislation that supports equal pay, parental leave, reproductive rights, and protection against gender-based violence. It could also be the “power of the dollar” and only purchasing products from companies who support women’s issues and equity. Engaging in policy advocacy ensures that systemic changes are made to address root causes of inequity.

4. Build a Support Network

Mentorship and Sponsorship

Seek out mentors and sponsors who can provide guidance, support, and advocacy. Mentors offer valuable advice based on their experiences, while sponsors actively promote your career advancement by leveraging their influence and networks.

Community Support

Build and maintain a strong support network of friends, family, and colleagues. These networks provide emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of solidarity. Engaging in communities, whether online or offline, can also open doors to new opportunities and resources.

5. Foster Workplace Equity

Promote Inclusive Practices

Advocate for inclusive practices in your workplace. This includes pushing for unbiased recruitment processes, fair pay, equal opportunities for advancement, and supportive policies like flexible working arrangements and parental leave.

Challenge Discrimination

Do not tolerate discriminatory behavior. Address it directly with the involved parties, report it to the appropriate authorities, and support others who are facing discrimination. Creating a culture of accountability helps in dismantling systemic biases.

6. Engage in Continuous Learning and Self-Care

Continuous Learning

Stay informed about global and local gender equality issues. Attend workshops, seminars, and conferences that focus on women’s rights and empowerment. Continuous learning helps in adapting to changing landscapes and finding innovative solutions to persistent inequities.

Self-Care and Mental Health

Taking care of your mental and physical health is paramount. Facing inequities can be stressful and exhausting. Practice self-care routines, seek professional help if needed, and ensure that you are mentally and physically equipped to handle challenges. Remember that taking care of yourself is a crucial part of sustaining long-term activism and advocacy.

7. Utilize Technology and Social Media

Raise Awareness

Leverage social media platforms to raise awareness about gender inequities and share your experiences. Digital platforms amplify your voice and can reach a broad audience, creating greater awareness and support for your cause.

Online Communities and Resources

Join online communities that focus on gender equality and women’s empowerment. These platforms offer resources, networking opportunities, and support. They can also be instrumental in organizing campaigns and mobilizing collective action.

Conclusion

Pushing back against the inequities women face requires using our feminine wiles. This multi-faceted approach combines personal empowerment, collective action, and systemic change. By educating ourselves, advocating for equal opportunities, leveraging legal tools, building support networks, fostering workplace equity, engaging in continuous learning and self-care, and utilizing technology, we as women can effectively challenge and overcome the barriers we encounter. Together, these strategies contribute to a more equitable and inclusive world where women can thrive. The journey is ongoing, but with resilience, solidarity, and strategic action, significant progress can be made.