I had the rare privilege to be included in the celebration of a lovely friend’s 100 years birthday party last weekend. The occasion inspired me to do a little web surfing.
The following article – though from a UK perspective – shows the enormous strides women have taken regarding their rights and dignity in this period.
I’ve highlighted a few of the more astonishing topics below and sadly noted some reoccurring themes.
The right to vote
To hold property
Serve on a jury
Open a bank account or apply for a loan
Be refused service for spending one's own money in a pub
Become an accountant or lawyer
Have a right to equal pay
Be considered a ‘person’ in the eyes of the law
Obtain a court order against a violent husband
Access the contraceptive pill if single
Get a legal and safe abortion
Report marital rape
My dear old friend has lived through much change and some not so successful attempts at change.
Happy birthday!
