Can you describe two methods of struggle that the women's movement used to raise issues? If you had to organise a struggle against stereotypes, about what women can or cannot do, what method would you employ from the ones that you have read about? Why would you choose this particular method?
The women's movement used several methods of struggle in order to raise issues. Two out of them are:
(a) Campaigning. It is an important part of the women's movement. It fights discrimination and violence against women.Campaigns have also led to new laws being passed. For example, in 2006, a law was passed to give women, who are prey to domestic violence, some legal protection.
The women's movement also led the Supreme Court to formulate guidelines in 1997 to protect women against sexual harassment at the workplace. Women's groups also raised voice against dowry deaths. They demanded immediate justice for cases of young bides being murdered by their in-laws or husbands for more dowry. They did so by coming on to the streets, approaching the courts and by sharing information. As a result of their efforts, the dowry laws were changed to punish families who seek dowry.
(b) Protesting. The women's movement raises its voice when violations against women take place. Public rallies and demonstrations are a very powerful way of drawing attention to injustices.
If I had to organise a struggle against stereotypes, about what women can or cannot do, I would like to employ the method of raising awareness among public. What pressure cannot do, awareness can do effectively. If we skilfully convince people for something it works excellently. We can brainwash the common mass through street plays, songs and public meetings. It is a permanent solution to a problem.
What changes came to be seen with the emergence of new ideas about education and learning in the 19th century?
"Poor girls drop out of school because they are not interested in getting an education”. Re-read the last paragraph on page 62 and explain why this statement is not true.
How do you think stereotypes, about what women can or cannot do, affect women's right to equality?
Can you describe two methods of struggle that the women's movement used to raise issues? If you had to organise a struggle against stereotypes, about what women can or cannot do, what method would you employ from the ones that you have read about? Why would you choose this particular method?
What are the various ways women apply to fight discrimination and seek justice? [V. Imp.]
Although the literacy rates have increased since independence, what remains the worrying factor with respect to gender?[V. Imp.]
List one reason why learning the alphabet was so important to women like Rashsundari Devi, Ramabai and Rokeya.
Why was Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain stopped from learning Bangla and English? How did she manage to team these languages?
Who set up a Mission in Khedgaon near Pune in 1898? How did the Mission prove beneficial for the women?