Today I picked up the free copy of our newspaper as usual. On the front was another poster – “Roll up Your Sleeves for Victory!” – a typical slogan to encourage women to work to contribute to the war effort.
I flipped through to the daily Gallup Poll. It really helps to know what the general public thinks when I’m writing my articles. I read it, and dropped my mouth in shock.
“Gallup Poll of Canadians – 75% of men and 68% of women polled believe that when the war ended men should be given preference over women when applying for jobs.”
A benefit of being a news reporter on the home front is being able to come in close contact with the people and see the changes in their lives. Surely, I have noticed a change in society’s view of women. But what was this? I was furious! And is it not ironic, that on the front cover was a propaganda poster promoting women in the work force, and on the back was this poll?
It is understandable that the men want their jobs back and are afraid women will lose their femininity. That came with surprise. But the women…I was disappointed. Have they not learnt worth in society and the workforce? I mean, look at how many women work now, both directly and indirectly, from factory workers to nurses to the Royal Navy Service. As odd as it may sound, I am actually thankful for this war for increasing the working opportunities of Canadian women. I am especially impressed with mothers helping with the war effort from home, who now need to single handedly raise several young children. But they hardly ever get recognition for their work.
I have decided to exploit the unjust placed on working women in my next article. Hopefully Canadians will learn to admire the role of women everywhere in our society.
To read my article for an in depth view of this injustice, stay tuned to The Globe and Mail!
~ Patricia Meyer
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I agree that women have a lot of worth in society. But to be honest I think that the men like my dad deserve to have a job, considering that they would have risked their lives, when they get home.
ReplyDelete-Richard Sharpe
As a woman, I am outraged that men still look upon women in such a manner. If there weren't hard working women like Marilyn Anderson on the home-front, the men would not be able to fight with the proper necessities. When the war ends, I will write to The Globe and Mail and express my concerns with women's rights!
ReplyDelete-Emma Bailey
Thank you Emma Bailey for defending the hardworking women at the home front! I AM OUTRAGED BY THIS DISCRIMINATION! We deserve more acknowledgements and credits for our work! Although I am delighted about the unity of the nation for the war effort, this injustice has truly disappointed me.
ReplyDelete-Marilyn Anderson
Patricia, I agree with you. As women we have contributed so much for this war, even though the men risked their lives we also contributed just the same amount as they did. Without us helping our Allied troops they wouldn't be where they are today. I believe that women have done so much for the Allies and we deserve the chance to be equal as men. It's time to take a stand!
ReplyDelete- Shirley Reynolds
Not that I don't believe in equality and the right of women, but if I were one of these men returning, I would want my job back. It is true that women shouldn't be discriminated, but under these events, I would say this is a different issue. Even though we got different perspectives, I would like to thank you for your contributions to the news at home. Thank you Patricia!
ReplyDelete-Gurt Bachett