by Maggie Jackson, Ph.D.

Why is it necessary to have Women’s History Month?  One reason is that, historically, women have not been accepted for leadership roles in the same manner as men.   Leadership has been viewed differently for women, and double standards have often prevailed when women have been chosen for such positions of power, guidance, influence, and decision-making. Despite this unjust system of values, the evidence shows that women have demonstrated strong leadership in society from the very beginning. 

Women have also been historically viewed as the weaker gender.  Double standards exist again whenever men have been portrayed as the stronger gender.  The persistence of this view has been a hindrance in evaluating the gifts of women: women have often simply not been given the same respect as men in areas of leadership, as elsewhere.  Gender biases must be eliminated from the decision-making process where leadership roles are concerned, especially in light of the vast number of women currently serving in every aspect of the modern world.

Why has this age-old question existed?  Why is it that women are often required to pass various litmus tests that men are not asked to pass when a position of leadership becomes available?  Will we ever experience a time in which a position of leadership is bestowed solely on the basis of qualification? 

Women's History Month Page for more features on this topic.

We must ask ourselves: Can we erase the gender factor in this process?  What is gained by the maintenance of a system of double standards?  Is there anything to gain in keeping the genders competitive in this manner?  Are those in power afraid to share decision-making positions with women?  Is there arrogance inherent in preventing the sharing of thoughts and actions?

Leadership is a privilege, and should not be denied or criticized based on gender.  The opportunity to provide leadership should be encouraged and celebrated.  The more women there are in leadership, the more attitudes will change across the broad spectrum. Women have successfully served as leaders in all aspects of secular and non-secular arenas.  As we continue to celebrate the progress and the contributions of women, let us give thanks for those women who are and have been in leadership roles everywhere. 

It is especially befitting that we recognize the leadership of women during Women’s History Month.

Maggie Jackson is a director of the General Board of Global Ministries.

	See Also... Topic: Women |  Geographic Region: United States |  Source: GBGM Mission News
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Date posted: Mar 09, 2007