<i>Still a long way to go</i>

Every time this day comes, there is a lot of frenzied activity all over the city on how to celebrate womanhood. The corporate sector is perhaps the most efficient in coming up with programmes to recognise the outstanding work of women in various sectors. Which is commendable, of course. After all, since when do these unsung heroes ever get any attention anyway? The media feel obligated to have special stories, mostly positive ones, to tell everyone: look, despite all the odds, women are excelling in so many fields. Then there are the activists and NGOs promoting women's rights; they too make great efforts to commemorate the day.
All this is fine, in terms of giving hope to women all over the country that the status quo can be challenged, changed even, given the required determination and dedication.
But what these endeavours often do not accomplish is obligate society in general, especially its men, to make a pledge to sincerely try to bring about real change. Will this celebration make (at least) most men look upon women as equal partners in bringing about a just, equitable society? Will women be paid equally as men for the same work? Will all men refrain from being bullies to their spouses just because they can? Will women walk without fear of being molested every time they walk the streets? Will women be given equal rights to property (now there's a prickly one!)?
These are uncomfortable, inconvenient questions that we would rather not answer because the answers will not be positive any time soon.
While we can use this historic day to celebrate all the women who have had the courage to defy patriarchy to follow their dreams, establish their rights and sometimes those of other women, we must acknowledge the truth that we still have a long way to go. Opportunities, tolerance, justice, acknowledgement - these are things all women must be given without restraint. Only then can this day be a true celebration.