Welcoming Kartini’s Day on 21st April means we will have annual contests like traditional costumes shows followed by students from play groups till university students, and cooking contests especially for men. It seems that celebrating Kartini’s Day is only an annual event which gives us opportunity to wear traditional costumes and to show that men can also cook. Is it what Kartini really wants us to celebrate her birthday?
In Kartini’s era when women’s role was very limited, Kartini struggled for equality. I think equality here means that she wanted to be respected as a wife, to be heard, and to be considered as a partner in managing the household. Today, she can smile happily to see many women especially in the cities have got high education and hold prestigious positions in their work places. And in celebrating her birthday, awards are given to women for their achievements in various fields and to those who are considered successful both in career and family life.
On the flip side, many women are still suffering from household abuse (KDRT), less respected, and don’t have rights to give opinions even in their own household. We can call them the voiceless.We should have concern for them, and find more activities to celebrate Kartini’s Day so the celebration is not only for successful women but also a reminder to find solution to help the voiceless.
Let’s begin from our own household. Our children will learn how their parents work in harmony to manage the household . Their parents and environments will be role model for them that men and women are created to be a partner , have their own roles and share duties and responsibilities .
Happy Kartini’s Day!
No comments:
Post a Comment