A Year Of Women In The News
By Ariel Neidermeier
As 2023 draws to a close, it's time to reflect on the feminist news headlines that may have slipped under the radar. From groundbreaking Nobel Prizes to inspiring acts of courage, these are the stories that remind us of the resilience and determination in the ongoing fight for gender equity and women's rights worldwide.
2023 Nobel Prizes highlight the contributions of women
The 2023 Nobel Prizes notably acknowledged the profound contributions of women in shaping a more equitable and just world. Among the luminaries was Iranian human rights activist and journalist Narges Mohammadi, awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her unyielding fight against the oppression of women in Iran. The Nobel Committee's decision to award Mohammadi with the prize came after more than a year of protests in Iran led largely by women after the murder of Mahsa Amini using the rallying cry “Woman, Life, Freedom!” Despite facing multiple arrests and harsh sentences, Mohammadi's steadfast dedication to women’s rights in Iran stands as a powerful beacon of hope within the global movement for women's liberation.
Claudia Goldin, a distinguished economic historian at Harvard, made history by winning the Nobel Economics Prize. She was recognized for her groundbreaking work in exposing the causes of wage and labor market inequalities between men and women. Goldin's research has offered a comprehensive understanding of women's earnings and labor market participation over centuries, revealing the persistent gender gap as well as the progress that’s been made. Her insights into phenomena such as "greedy work" and the impact of societal and economic factors on women's work life balance have profound implications for policy and societal change.
The UN Creates the First International Day of Care and Support: A Milestone for Gender Equality
In an unprecedented move, the United Nations General Assembly established October 29th as the International Day of Care and Support. This landmark resolution (A/RES/77/317) aims to shine a light on the critical yet often undervalued role of care and support in our societies, particularly highlighting the disproportionate burden shouldered by women and girls in unpaid care and domestic work.
This new observance day encourages Member States, alongside the UN system, civil society, the private sector and academia, to raise awareness and develop policies to transform the care economy. It underscores the necessity of creating environments that facilitate women's economic autonomy and enhance the well-being of care workers and their communities. This observance day not only honors the tireless efforts of caregivers but also propels the ongoing struggle towards an emotionally and economically equitable society for all genders.
Licypriya Kangujam, Climate Activist and Young Keynote Speaker (left) at Berlin Energy Transition Dialogue in Berlin, 2023. Credit: dpa/Alamy Live News.
12-Year-Old Climate Crusader Licypriya Kangujam Disrupts COP28, Demanding Urgent Action
In a display of courageous activism, 12-year-old Indian climate activist Licypriya Kangujam recently made headlines by storming the stage at the COP28 UN climate summit. With a sign declaring “End fossil fuels. Save our planet and our future,” Kangujam captured the world's attention by voicing the urgent call for action against climate change. Despite being escorted off stage by security, her passionate plea was met with applause from delegates, signifying a resonance with her message.
Kangujam, often referred to as “India’s Greta Thunberg”, has been a fervent voice in the climate movement since the age of seven. Her spontaneous protest at COP28 underscored the growing frustration over the slow progress in combating the climate crisis. It also highlighted the increasing involvement of young female activists on the global stage of environmental politics. Her act of defiance is a powerful reminder that future generations are not just passive observers but are increasingly becoming active agents demanding change for a sustainable future.
Greta Gerwig's Record-breaking 'Barbie' Heralds New Era for Female Directors
Greta Gerwig, ‘Barbie’ movie Director (center right) Photo Credit: Warner Bros. / Album / Alamy Stock Photo
Director Greta Gerwig's record-breaking 'Barbie' not only captivated audiences worldwide but also shattered industry records, marking a new milestone in feminist cinema. This year, Greta Gerwig became the first female director to single-handedly direct a film grossing over $1 billion. This achievement places 'Barbie' above even the likes of 'Frozen II' in domestic earnings, further solidifying Gerwig's success in an industry dominated by male directors. Beyond box office milestones, the subject matter of ‘Barbie’ was distinctly feminist, delving deep into themes of equality, the patriarchy, and self-esteem. Gerwig's achievement is a harbinger of change, signaling an era where the voices and perspectives of women in film are not just heard but celebrated and embraced on a global scale.