History has proven that when those who have been discriminated against are given the liberty to fully engage in society, the world and the global economy is so much better for it. Time and time again we’ve seen that equality isn’t simply for the glory of the individual, it’s for the collective good of us all. The liberation of women is just one example of this.
Women have always been a working people. Even when their skills were limited to domestic life, teaching, nursing, etc., their contribution made significant impacts on society. As the suffrage movement gained gender equality, allowing women to engage in the workforce and global economy, it revealed that when a woman wins, everyone wins.
“I can promise you that women working together – linked, informed and educated – can bring peace and prosperity to this forsaken planet.” -Isabelle Allende
Many of the world’s greatest discoveries and inventions wouldn’t exist if not for women. Industrialization increased exponentially as women joined the workforce, providing economic growth and lower interest rates for everyone. Beyond that, growth in a woman’s purchasing power always impacts their family and community positively, raising income levels and often reducing poverty.
Costa Rica’s poverty rate is now 26.2% of households, increasing in the last few years due to the pandemic. Alongside that, 20% of women in Costa Rica are living in poverty. If almost all impoverished Costa Rican women were given a job with a living wage, the poverty rate would drop lower than 11%. That’s why Transforma, one of our communities, works directly with the women of Costa Rica, giving them the tools needed to start their own businesses and provide for their families. Because a decrease in poverty will impact entire communities and generations to come.
“If you educate a man, you educate an individual, but if you educate a woman, you educate a nation.” -African Proverb
In Uganda, 64% of women and girls report experiencing gender-based and/or domestic violence and 35% of them drop out of school due to pregnancy. Programs that pour into women in Uganda boost their confidence and inspire them to become leaders in their community. That’s why Mizizi, our Uganda-based community, comes alongside young women and families in various villages to empower them with business training and family support that changes the lives of those in the community who benefit from their successes.
Unbridled women change the world. Reflecting on the powerful historical impact women have had is inspiring. UnbridledACTS is thankful to witness, firsthand, the impeccable work of women both state-side and abroad. May we never take for granted the benefits we gain when women have equal rights. And may we always encourage young girls to go after their dreams.
Happy Women’s History Month!
