CBSE Class 7 Social Science Civics Notes Chapter 5 Women Change the World

The Women’s Movement is a collective effort by women to bring about social change and fight for equality. This movement has used various strategies like campaigning, raising awareness, protesting, and showing solidarity to combat discrimination and seek justice. Historically, men and women have been assigned specific gender roles, leading to persistent inequalities for women. Despite progress over time, women still face disparities in many areas and are often denied equal opportunities and privileges in a male-dominated society. Certain jobs are stereotypically considered more suitable for men than women, reinforcing the belief that women excel only in specific roles, such as nursing and teaching, due to perceived traits like patience and gentleness. This stereotype undermines women’s capabilities in technical and leadership positions, which are often reserved for men. In India, these stereotypes influence educational and career opportunities. Boys receive more support to pursue careers in fields like medicine and engineering, while girls are less encouraged to study and train for these professions. However, modern women are increasingly breaking these stereotypes by excelling in traditionally male-dominated fields. Examples include women pilots, engineers, police officers, and scientists. Laxmi Lakra, for instance, became an engine driver, proving that women can succeed in any profession. Societal pressures also affect boys, who are often pushed to pursue high-paying jobs, primarily in science and math. Parents sometimes wrongly believe that only these subjects can secure their children’s futures, overlooking the value of other fields like history and political science. One positive change is the increasing number of children attending school. In the past, literacy was a privilege of a few, with boys generally receiving more educational opportunities than girls. However, efforts by individuals and communities have led to more girls getting educated, despite initial resistance. Historical figures like Rashsundari Devi and Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain played significant roles in advancing women’s education. Rashsundari Devi, despite societal taboos, taught herself to read and write and authored an autobiography. Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain defied norms to learn Bangla and English and established a school for girls in Kolkata. Despite improvements, girls’ literacy rates still lag behind boys'. According to the 2001 census, 76% of boys and men were literate compared to only 54% of girls and women. Girls from Dalit and Adivasi backgrounds face even greater challenges due to poverty and familial preferences for educating boys. The progress in women’s status and rights is largely due to the collective efforts of the Women’s Movement, which also includes support from men. The movement employs various strategies to raise awareness, combat discrimination, and seek justice, including campaigns, protests, and solidarity actions.

Key Terms:

• Stereotype : A fixed and oversimplified image or idea of a particular type of person or group.
• Discrimination : Treating people unfairly or unequally based on characteristics like gender, race, or age.
• Violation : An act that disregards or breaks a law or rule.
• Sexual Harassment : Unwelcome physical or verbal behavior of a sexual nature.
• Protest : An action or statement expressing disapproval or objection to something.
• Scheduled Caste (SC) : An official term for historically disadvantaged communities, also known as Dalits.
• Scheduled Tribe (ST) : An official term for indigenous communities, also known as Adivasis.
• Autobiography : A person's life story written by themselves.
• Manuscript : A document written by hand.
• Census : An official count or survey of a population, recording various details of individuals, conducted every ten years.