Unity Statement (1980)

“Unity Statement (1980)” Women’s Lives: Multicultural Perspective, New York: McGraw Hill, 2007, 525-527.

In this article, women expressed their concerns for the male dominated government impeding their rights as women, as individuals, and disrespecting their homes and the world they live in. They believe that the government is abusing its power, and therefore hindering their beliefs.

Maternally, the women want their home lives to be respected. They “want enough food, decent housing, communities with clean air and water, [and] good care for our children while we work.” In addition they “want to be free from violence in our streets and in our houses… [and] the right to have or not to have children.” Obviously they are worried about male officials not understanding the needs of women within their homes. They need healthcare that will protect their family, and laws or rules that will diminish the violence that is present in their communities. Which, this is very understandable because motherly instinct includes the protection of their families. No one should feel fear from where they live, and they shouldn’t have to worry about not being able to provide their families with the medical attention that they need. Items such as these should not be refused or not provided for, because the well being of society depends upon it.

The women want to be respected in the work force, and compensated for it. They “want work that is useful to a sensible society… intend to form women’s groups or unions that will demand safe workplaces, free of sexual harassment, and equal pay for work of comparable value… [and they] expect [their] experience [and] skills to be honored and used.” By demanding these aspects, their intelligence, strength, and skills to be used to the best of their abilities, and that they will be helpful to society. Women have value, and are just as capable as men. It is time that this is acknowledged and understood. They can influence the workforce and prove useful if people will just recognize it. Men do not have to be the main form of labor, for women can do anything men can do if their minds are set for it. Over time women have shown this, holding higher ranks in the corporate world, leading in scientific endeavors, and making strides that were never believed to happen. Why shouldn’t women expect respect in the working community? By demanding this respect, women can change the world, and build stronger companies that can help the economy.

Lastly, women believe that they “are right to be afraid,” and that “life on the precipice is intolerable.” They are scared that the male structure in corporations and government will influence their lives to a point where it cannot be overcome. They want their voices to be heard, to not be oppressed for their sexual orientation, and that the world they live in to not be subjected to use by corporations to increase military security. It can be seen that their lives are being reined in by a male dominated society, and that their views are not being addressed. By attempting to make their voices heard, they hope this will alleviate some of the silencing of their beliefs, and that headway will be made. This is the first step in the right direction; towards women’s rights, equality, and power.