Gender Discrimination Of Women In The Military

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Gender Discrimination: A Woman’s Fight In life, we are all told we can do what we set our minds to and become what we want. We have been told that we are all equals and have equal chances, but what about women in the military? Not only have women have to deal with no being able to hold certain positions in the army, but they also have to deal with cruelty and harassment from fellow veterans due to their gender. Even though women can do the job just as well as men, it is not realized that veteran is not a gender-specific word for just men (Arntz). Along with not being able to hold certain positions and being harassed, they also have to deal with the after effects that come along with what they have suffered through. Women in the military constantly face a battle. Not only are they fighting outside forces, but they are also fighting inside forces. They have to fight the discrimination that comes along with being a female in serving in the military. For years, women have served and sacrificed for our country. Women, however, do not receive the same rights as men. “....About ten percent of Marine Corps and Army occupational specialities are closed to women...” (Elayne). Just because you are a woman, that does not mean you are incapable. One of the restrictions for women in the military is that they are banned from serving in ground combat jobs. These restrictions make women unable to receive job assignments that could lead them to advancements in their careers. As said in New York Times, “Many women can do combat jobs just as well as men, if not better, but none have the chance to prove it.” Women have worked hard to get through the military, yet they are still limited as to what they are allowed to do. As said by Chamberlain, “... ... middle of paper ... ... unconstitutional act. We are all equals, and we should be treated as such. Women have to face the discrimination, the harassment, the cruelty, all because of the job interest they have decided to pursue. They have to face unequal job opportunities, sexual assault by fellow soldiers, and the after effects of their experiences. Men are not the only ones able to protect our country, women can too. A woman can be or do anything she sets her mind to. It’s a matter of hard work and dedication that determines if you can be successful in the military, not whether or not you are a male. The percentage of women joining the army is increasing, and the available opportunities should increase as well. Women can do anything they set their minds to, and not be discriminated for it. It is time for a change. A change for women, a change for the military, and a change for humanity.

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