Silence is violence
Canadian author and journalist, Sally Armstrong, recently spoke at St. George’s Church in Guelph to promote her new book “Ascent of Women.”
Armstrong is an award-winning human rights activist who has covered what happens to girls in countries such as Afghanistan and Kenya. Not only was she a member of the International Women’s Commission and a part of UN Peace-talks in the Middle East, Armstrong is also a member of the Order of Canada.
Her new book, “Ascent of Women: Our turn, our way,” published by Random House in March 2013, reflects the familiar story of worldwide change happening today. Drawing on the perilous journey that women have endured, her book shows why women and girls are the way forward to the future. Armstrong introduces us to leading women who are making change happen, from Nobel Prize winners to young women suing for justice.
The book is about overcoming obstacles and learning what to not take for granted, and focuses on the complacent attitudes towards the position of women in society. Armstrong argues that, to make a change happen, proper channels and mediums need to be utilized, including suitable tools in our infrastructure, particularly the legal system. She argues that we must not just educate the general population, but also build awareness within the legal community including law enforcement and legislation.
Armstrong’s lecture was presented by the Zonta Club of Guelph advocacy group and sponsored by the Bracelet of Hope campaign. She spoke of the plight of women around the world, and the process of change happening via the mount of women.
The lecture revealed how the immense changes are a result of the efforts of women claiming their own space from the intractable binds of patriarchy. Her first argument suggested that the “ascent” of women is the result of women finally speaking up and defying laws. Her second, and alternative, argument inferred that the “ascent” is a result of social media on the internet, such as Facebook and Twitter, which have permitted women to communicate with each other locally, nationally and internationally.
Armstrong discussed a few things that must change, namely “distortion” and “disease.” She began by arguing that the targeting of women within Muslim law is counter-intuitive and the rise of Islamisation must cease. Armstrong also argued that culture that is associated with the impunity of opportunistic men must also be eradicated. Armstrong further accused the Christian Right in wrongfully misinterpreting the feminist’s agenda. Armstrong stated that by cutting out the religious dogma – that she argues represses women – would open up an opportunity to elevate women’s voices. “Moral courage is noticed by its absence,” said Armstrong.
Armstrong was quick to associate herself with the likes of Hilary Clinton, also praising the recent activism by Malala Yousafzai. Armstrong argued that, clearly one process women are gaining traction in is defying the rules of the Taliban. According to Armstrong, by speaking truth to power, the church, and society, the progress of women is becoming more apparent. Armstong also supported Jeffrey Sachs’ political argument, which correlated the economy with women, and asserts that women are the way to reduce poverty.
Clearly, the influence of the West has had a major impact on advancing the status of women worldwide, and women’s stories are finally being heard. Yet, besides women breaking their silence, Armstrong also recommended challenging men. She also expressed the wish for men to speak up on behalf of women. “Elevating ego through kindness,” said Armstrong, is not only Nietzschean, but also the personification of “altruistic egoism.” Lastly, Armstrong said that one could make a positive impact on improving the lives of women by making donations to charities that hope to solve poverty and end wars.
Change can occur when diverse people engage in this process. The “Ascent of Women” has reached a zenith momentum like never before.