Gender equality and Saudi Arabia

Although some are quick to criticize the state of gender equality in America, they seldom speak out about the appalling status of women in other nations. As but one example, as a kingdom (yes, it still has a king) ruled under Islamic law, Saudi Arabia deprives its women of basic legal rights. Women cannot vote. They are barred from many professions. They must ride in the back of public buses. A women’s testimony is only worth one half of a man’s testimony. Criminal sexual conduct cases against women require women to produce four witnesses. Women cannot drive – in fact, they can not even be in a car with a male who is not a relative. They cannot appear before a judge without a male representative, or travel abroad without the permission of a male guardian. Women must not show their faces in public or they will oppressed by the police. And there is more.

Although not perfect, America has made tremendous strides in gender equality, and appears ready to elect a woman as President (if the right candidate). Our progress has been made because of our belief in the First Principle of equality. With more hard work, we can continue to make progress on this important journey.


For more on the First Principle of equality and gender, visit:
http://www.americassurvivalguide.com/index.php