From Iran’s Anti-hijab Protest To Sabarimala, 5 Women-led Protests Across the World

Throughout history, women have been at the forefront of numerous social and political movements, advocating for their rights and equality. Not just issues concerning women, these movements have also challenged the status quo and paved the way for significant changes in societies worldwide.

From Iran's anti-hijab protests to India's Sabarimala temple protests, women-led movements have gained global attention and have become symbols of resistance and resilience. Ahead of the upcoming International Women’s Day on March 8, 2023, we highlight five women-led protests from different parts of the world that have significantly impacted their respective societies in the last 10 years. These protests demonstrate the power of women's voices and their ability to challenge deeply entrenched societal norms and institutions.

Iran Anti-Hijab Protest

Iran steps into the 200th day of its anti-hijab protest today. Sparked by the death of a woman in custody, who was detained for allegedly breaking hijab laws, women across Iran have been spearheading rising protests. Women across Iran are burning their hijabs, cutting their hair, and making flags out of them despite several arrests, detention, death sentences, and school girls being allegedly poisoned among other obstacles from the government.

Don't Miss: A Love Letter To Tabu: The Enduring Magic She Brings To Her Characters

Anti-CAA Protest

The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) passed in India in December 2019, sparked nationwide protests against the government's discriminatory policies. Women played a significant role in leading these protests, with many taking to the streets and participating in sit-ins and marches. From actors such as Swara Bhasker, Farhan and Javed Akhtar to 82-year-old Shaheen Bagh resident Bilkis, the movement was marked by its inclusivity, with women from different religious, caste, and socio-economic backgrounds coming together to voice their opposition to the law. Women-led protests such as the Shaheen Bagh sit-in, which lasted for months, became symbols of resistance against the government's attempts to divide the nation along religious lines. Despite facing harassment and intimidation from government supporters, women continued to lead and participate in the protests, demanding the government repeal the CAA and uphold the values of democracy and equality.

Protest Against Abortion Laws In The US

In recent years, women have been at the forefront of protests against abortion laws in the United States. These laws, which restrict access to abortions or even criminalise the procedure, have been controversial and have conflict across the country. As per the women's rights activists, such laws violate their reproductive rights and autonomy, and they disproportionately affect marginalized communities. Women have organized protests, marches, and rallies to demand that lawmakers protect their right to access safe and legal abortions.

Sabarimala Protests

The Sabarimala temple in Kerala has traditionally barred women of menstruating age from entering the temple's premises, citing religious customs and beliefs for a long time. However, in 2018, India's Supreme Court ruled that the ban was discriminatory and unconstitutional. Despite this, the temple's authorities refused to allow women to enter the temple, leading to widespread protests and demonstrations. Protests led by women from all walks of life including students, activists, and homemakers continued for several months demanding that the ban be lifted and that women be allowed to enter the temple without any restrictions.

Don't Miss:Ishaan Khatter: From Beyond The Clouds To A Suitable Boy, He Is Here To Stay

MeToo Movement

Back in 2017, women across different industries stepped forward to share their stories of sexual harassment and assault in the workplace using the hashtag #MeToo on social media to amplify their voices. The MeToo movement is a powerful social movement that aims to raise awareness about sexual harassment and assault. This collective effort has sparked a much-needed conversation about the prevalence of sexual misconduct in society and the need for systemic change. Women continue to lead the MeToo movement, advocating for better policies, support for survivors, and cultural change.