Happy 100 years!?

I had the rare privilege to be included in the celebration of a lovely friend’s 100 years birthday party last weekend. The occasion inspired me to do a little web surfing.

The following article – though from a UK perspective – shows the enormous strides women have taken regarding their rights and dignity in this period.

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/women/life/1918-vs-2018-13-things-women-couldnt-do-100-years-ago/

I’ve highlighted a few of the more astonishing topics below and sadly noted some reoccurring themes.

• The right to vote

• To hold property

• Serve on a jury

• Open a bank account or apply for a loan

• Be refused service for spending one's own money in a pub

• Become an accountant or lawyer

• Have a right to equal pay

• Be considered a ‘person’ in the eyes of the law

• Obtain a court order against a violent husband

• Access the contraceptive pill if single

• Get a legal and safe abortion

• Report marital rape

My dear old friend has lived through much change and some not so successful attempts at change.

Happy birthday!

#FionaPrior