One priviledge I have gained from a social justice movement was from Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). Their time and effort has made a serious difference on whether people will risk the chance of drinking and driving and spending years in prison or not taking the risk at all. Laws have been made to ensure my and other surrounding drivers will be driving safely. They may not be entirely secure by the laws so heighten the penalties of the consequences shrinks the number of drunk drivers dramatically.
Domestic violence laws were also supported by numerous women, and some men, who joined together who were afraid of going home to their spouses. The laws guarantee that if for some reason, God forbid, if I was in a relationship where my boyfriend or husband was abusive, I would be safe. The laws also establish the difference between an actual domestic violence situation and an angsty teenage girl's interpretation of 'abuse'.
Child labor laws have helped me as a young teenager to find a part-time job and allow myself time for school. These laws ensure wages will not alter with age and the hours may alter according to school hours and after-school activities. The laws against child labor have made it possible for me to obtain a part-time job when I was fifteen and was able to attend school everyday at the normal high school hours.
When the feminists in the 1960's established equalities in the work force, it gave women and men the same opportunites to have the same position with equal pay. This law helps me for mainly the future when I am certain of my career. I will not have to work 5 times harder than a male who is trying to take the same position I accquire. It will also guarantee that I will be able to support myself without a husband. I can sustain a life without having to combine incomes.
The last of these priviledges I, as well as every other female Americans, is the right to vote. Women were considered 2nd class citizens, until they stood up for equality between men and women. Women are now lifted up out of 2nd class and are considered just as equal as any other man.
I apologize for the multiple spaces. I am not sure exactly how that happened.
ReplyDeleteI forgive for the multiple spaces. haha :)
ReplyDeleteI thought this was interesting! I had thought of some of the political changes you are thankful, such as a women's right to vote and child labor laws, but MADD and domestic abuse laws hadn't crossed my mind. Thanks for giving me more food for thought :)
Taylor,
ReplyDeleteI have to agree with Aimee, MADD and child labor laws had not really crossed my mind either, but once you mentioned them I completely agree with you! I especially agree with the laws against domestic abuse. This is also something I would never have thought of, but I am glad to have this protection if (God forbid) I am ever in an abusive relationship. I am incredible greatful to know that I will forever be protected against such people. Thank you for your great new insight :)
Alyssa