Obama’s New Vision to Empower Women
The US is acknowledged globally as the epitome of freedom, democracy and equality. Thousands of people seek for Green Cards to migrate to America as they flee war and oppression in their countries or simply in search of the famous ‘American Dream.’ The election and re-election of President Obama is often cited as the embodiment of the possibility for success and fulfillment for every American’s dream irrespective of race, religion, color or creed.
Women empowerment in America is wanting
Despite this, women have not fared well in the US for many years. For example, less than 20% of American women are CEOs of established companies. America also has never had a female president; the future does not seem to be favorable for this prospect either. Single motherhood has become the norm in a country that was renowned for its stable families decades ago. Women are yet to gain the prominence they deserve in American society.
The Obama regime and women empowerment
The Obama government has been taking some steps towards women empowerment since it came into power. For example, in September 2012, it entered into a partnership with other nations in what was called Equal Futures, an initiative for empowering women and girls. In 2012, President Obama had addressed the UN General Assembly and challenged nations to “break down economic and political barriers that stand in the way of women and girls.” Equal Futures was meant to increase the prospects of girls and women in science, technology, engineering and math and support women to engage in entrepreneurship as well as participate in civic and public leadership.
In 2013, President Obama made this statement:
“When women succeed, nations are more safe, more secure, and more prosperous. Over the last year, we’ve seen women and girls inspiring communities and entire countries to stand up for freedom and justice, and I’m proud of my Administration’s efforts to promote gender equality worldwide.
This was in tandem with the following measures, among many that his government has taken to empower women:
Making the US National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security operational in 2011 to enhance participation of female Americans in pertinent decision making.
Launching the Women’s Entrepreneurship in the Americas initiative to boost women’s participation in business.
Boosting women’s access to financial services
Expanding employment opportunities for women and instituting measures to protect them from harassment.
Instituting measures to curb gender-based violence.
Although the battle is not yet won, this is a step in the right direction for women empowerment.
©EthLeen
