In a world designed for both men and women, the pervasive subordination of women ranks alongside other forms of profound inequality. Though claims of progress are frequent, gender discrimination and oppression persist, transcending class, race, and age. This is a reality that demands immediate scrutiny.
Feminism evolved significantly throughout the modern era, progressing through four distinct waves. The first wave, rooted in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, emerged notably in Europe and North America. This era was defined by mass protests, the establishment of women’s organizations, and the proliferation of publications advocating for political participation. Organizations like the National American Woman Suffrage Association blossomed, championing women’s suffrage and fundamental legal rights.
The second wave, spanning from the 1960s to the late 20th century, aimed to correct the economic and social injustices that remained despite the first wave’s political successes. This movement focused on dismantling gender stereotypes, challenging traditional family roles, and advocating for equal access to education and impartial job opportunities.
The third wave, emerging in the 1990s, shifted focus from a monolithic female experience to intersectionality, diversity, and inclusivity. It highlighted the experiences of women of color, who faced unique and compounded marginalization, and addressed chronic issues like rape culture. This wave successfully challenged the abstract notion of a ‘typical woman,’ promoting the idea that the female experience is diverse.
The fourth and most recent wave, starting around 2012, has primarily targeted sexual harassment, abuse, objectification, and systemic sexism. Driven by the power of social media, this wave has made feminist activism more visible, raising awareness about persistent discrimination and reshaping societal views.
Despite these global efforts, we must shift our focus to the root problems women still face. Sexism remains prevalent, often leading women to internalize misogyny and believe they are subservient to men. Is it not dismal that the world seems to have decided women are inferior?
Patriarchy, a system dating back centuries, aims to silence, suppress, and control women. Regardless of race or age, women consistently face prejudice. Why do women in the same positions as men still earn less? Why does one in three women experience gender-based violence? These are not anomalies; they are symptoms of a system designed to keep women subordinate.
The consequences of this system are often criminal. It is illegitimate that young women, often minors, are forced into marriages with men thrice their age, leading to forced childbearing and a life of servitude. It is gut-wrenching that adults predetermine these girls’ lives, condemning them to poverty and often abusive households. Governments that ignore the plight of young women forced into underage marriages are complicit in this wickedness.
Violence remains a prominent tool of oppression. Some men feel entitled to ‘correct’ their wives, using ‘discipline’ as an excuse for abuse—a foolish and dangerous mindset. No one has the right to use violence against another human being, and discrimination based on biological sex is backward.
This oppression extends culturally, religiously, and politically. Societies often impose strict rules on women, demanding blind adherence. Politically, women are appallingly underrepresented in parliaments and cabinets. Those who do seek office often face violence; for example, Kenyan legislator Sarah Korere was assaulted by a fellow parliamentarian in 2016, a violent act stemming from deep-seated gender bias.
It is astonishing how misogyny has become normalized, shaping the minds of the next generation. Children are often raised to embrace these views; daughters are expected to cook and clean, reinforcing a role of servitude, while male children are often valued more highly. This conspicuous bias stifles the potential of young girls.
It is sickening that women cannot walk freely in today’s society without fear, underscoring the lack of a true haven. In many cases, perpetrators are never brought to justice, and shockingly, women are often victim-blamed for their own harassment.
In conclusion, misogyny is a twisted mindset that urgently requires correction. The double standards forced upon women must cease. Neither patriarchy nor matriarchy should dominate; instead, we must strive for a fair world offering equal opportunity and dignity for everyone, regardless of gender.
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Amani Nganga is a first year education student at Kenyatta University
