Breathe
By Sofía Pérez Gasque Muslera
The Constitution of Apatzingán, enacted in 1814, is a milestone in Mexico's history. This document not only laid the foundations for an independent country, but also opened the door to principles that resonate today in the struggle for gender equality and the economic "empowerment" of women.
Although women's rights were not explicitly addressed in her time, her legacy is still relevant in today's context.
Although the Constitution of Apatzingán did not directly contemplate gender equality, its focus on individual rights set an important precedent. This initial recognition can be seen as a precursor to contemporary struggles advocating for the inclusion of women in all spheres, especially in the economic sphere.
In Mexico today, the economic "empowerment" of women is more crucial than ever. Despite legislative advances promoting gender equality, women still face significant barriers. According to recent data, only 46.5% of women participate in paid activities, revealing a considerable gap compared to men.
Rural women in particular, as we discussed in last week's article, play a fundamental role in the country's economy. They are often responsible for primary activities and natural resource conservation, but their contribution remains invisible. Less than 18% of these women actively participate in the labor market.
Women's business associations have emerged as key spaces for fostering economic empowerment among women. These organizations provide training and support networks that enable women not only to participate in the economy, but also to lead initiatives that benefit their communities.
Despite progress, we still face significant challenges. The wage gap is an alarming reality; for every 100 pesos a man earns, a woman earns only 86 pesos. In addition, many rural women lack access to the financing and resources needed to start or expand their businesses.
The Constitution of Apatzingán invites us to reflect on these current challenges. Although it does not directly address the issue of gender, its legacy reminds us of the importance of fighting for individual rights and building a legal framework that promotes equality.
As Mexico moves toward a more equitable future, it is essential to continue promoting public policies that support women, especially in rural areas. Only in this way can we honor the legacy of those who fought for a free and equal nation and ensure that all voices are heard in the economic sphere.
The flourishing of women's "empowerment" and its impact on the economy are reflections of the fighting spirit that characterized the founders of our nation. The Constitution of Apatzingán can be seen as a starting point to continue this path towards equity and sustainable development.
The opinions expressed are the responsibility of the authors and are absolutely independent of the position and editorial line of the company. Opinion 51.
Comments ()