International Women's Day on March 8 was a time to celebrate women's economic, political and social achievements. The intent of the first celebration in 1909 was to appreciate women's maternal love and virtuous behaviour.
In contemporary society the social position of women has improved a lot and the relationship between men and women is much more equal. Women in Hong Kong now enjoy high levels of education and can earn considerable salaries. However, women are still treated as second-class citizens in some countries. They must obey the wishes of their fathers, brothers and husbands, even if they are unreasonable or unjustifiable.
People should continue to fight for the legal rights and social welfare for women in impoverished countries around the world.
Pat Tsoi
From the Editor
Thank you for your letter, Pat. In developed places like Hong Kong, many people take women's equality for granted. In our city, women are given the same protection as men, are free to do the same jobs as men, and expect the same salaries and the same respect from their colleagues.