The influence of women in society has seemingly increased as years have gone on. For centuries, women of all kinds have worked vigorously to amplify their voices and thoughts that have been suppressed for years. In terms of sports, academics, and the arts, through the years, women have dominated these areas of society.
The month of March is celebrated for its dedication to International Women’s Day. In a month of reflecting on the contributions of women in our society from the past, and the future, it is evident that women play a significant role that can oftentimes be overlooked. With notable women such as Emma Watson, Serena Williams, and Jacinda Ardern, etc., each is worthy of attention for their marks in the world. While actresses, singers, and politicians are each of importance, it is furthermore crucial to take one step further and note the women on our campus who have made just as much of an impact within a smaller community.
(Photograph from Victoria Espinoza)
“When I think of someone influential I see someone that people look up to, someone willing to stand up for what is right when no one else will, someone that wants to help others,” senior, and captain of the girl’s soccer team, Victoria Espinoza said.
Serena Williams is notable throughout the world for her two-decades spanning career in tennis. She has been ranked number one in women’s singles tennis and has won 22 grand slams – more than any man. While her accomplishments as a tennis player are significant, Williams has had multiple struggles as a woman of color in the sports industry. Every day, within matches, interviews, and simple day-to-day life, she fights racism and sexism. Of course, men struggle with the issues society places on them, however, it can be increasingly difficult to handle the pressure of being a female athlete; and furthermore, captain.
“Being a woman in sports is never easy, people tend not to take you seriously, and you are constantly trying to earn the respect of others,” Espinoza said. “Being the captain of my team does help to gain a little respect at times, but it’s not always guaranteed.”
Soccer is notorious for its players’ capabilities as a team sport — at school, this is not any different. The role of a leader and team captain on the female soccer team is crucial, as Espinoza explained how when she was named captain, she was “more conscious of [her] decisions and made sure to always set a good example on and off the field.” Although in previous years callouts have been made in relation to the sexism that overtakes society, it has not disappeared; and with women striving to make a difference, criticism is even more likely.
“The standards for captains, in general, are to be a leader on your team and keep everyone under control, for females our ability to do that is critiqued very harshly compared to our male counterparts,” Espinoza said.
Taking office at the age of 29, Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) is the youngest woman ever to serve in the United States Congress. She is well known for her no-nonsense attitude and empathy towards those without a voice in the government. Working as a bartender before taking a seat in the Congress, AOC shows that any “day-to-day” person can make a change if they put their mind to it and furthermore uplifts the silenced voices in terms of sexism, racism, homophobia, etc. Along with many women within society, Taylor Swift is a popular artist who not only sings and writes songs but inspires those around the world of the importance of speaking out on things of great importance. She is a vulnerable woman who spoke up about her sexual assault case in 2017 where she “only asked for a symbolic $1 (77p) in damages … and has now pledged to donate to organizations that help defend sexual assault victims.” (BBC) Swift’s vulnerability and outspoken takes create a relationship between, not only fans but thousands of others who have gone through similar experiences.
“Taylor Swift, Serena Williams, AOC, etc. are great examples of women who use their platforms to uplift others and shine light on issues in the world that need to be addressed; these powerful women are not afraid to stand out. They are not afraid of the backlash, they will fight for the people, they will fight for what is right,” Espinoza said.
Politics have been taking a hit lately, and this is not any different with the onslaught of female politicians. Earlier this year, Kamala Harris was sworn in as the first female, and black South Asian-American vice president. Representation in the media and society matters for many; especially young girls and WOC who may be inspired by the rise of women in power. The New Zealand Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, has also been momentous as of late and in time past with her response to the pandemic. In late April of 2020, Ardern announced the absence and elimination of Covid after strict restrictions on the country — since then, New Zealand has lifted all restrictions except for international border closures. Her quick response to the virus has been met with much praise. Not only that but Ardern’s response to Christchurch massacre in which 51 were killed and 49 injured in two mosques: “Six days after the attacks, Ardern pledged to outlaw most semiautomatic weapons in New Zealand and it was made into law less than a month after the attacks, voted for by every New Zealand parliamentarian bar one.” (The Guardian)
“If more women are given the opportunity to be put in positions of power, they will have the ability to show that they are more than capable of upholding their positions and making decisions within society,” Espinoza said.
All in all, women around the world have been raising their voices and taking even more action in light of the silence they have been ascribed to. For centuries, men have risen to power with benefits for themselves, lacking the standpoint others need.
“I believe we do need more women in our society, we can’t let men make decisions for all of us all the time, it’s time for a new perspective,” Espinoza said.