How to Understand Your Rights as a Woman

Women have been fighting for their rights to equal and fair treatment for centuries. Fortunately, the past few decades have seen a marked increase in the rights a woman has available to her, according to both American and international law. While there is still much progress to be made, it is important for you to understand your present rights as a woman.

Instructions

1. Know your rights according to the UN. The United Nations is the international body that oversees human rights for all groups, including women. In 1979, the UN General Assembly adopted the Convention of the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. The convention and its signatory states guarantee that a woman receives equal treatment under the law in all areas of life.

2. Understand the 19th Amendment. The 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees that a woman who is a citizen of legal age can vote in all U.S. elections. While the 19th provides for a fairly basic right, its status as a constitutional amendment signifies that, according to the Constitution, woman are equal to men in political matters.

3. Find out about equal protection as a woman. Aside from the 19th Amendment, a few key laws provide for important women's rights. First is the Equal Pay Act of 1963, which makes it illegal to pay a woman less than a man for the same job. Another important law is the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination of any kind on the basis of race or gender. The Civil Rights Act also established the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission which gives a woman the right to challenge any employer who may be discriminating against women. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits discrimination against girls and women in education, including school sports.

4. Know your rights as an expecting mother. One of the other major issues facing women is maternity. The U.S. guarantees a woman who is an eligible employee of a covered company of 50 or more people to receive 12 weeks of unpaid leave. Although many companies pay women for maternity leave, it is not required. However, in many cases, a pregnant woman is entitled to short-term disability. So check on your rights as a pregnant woman to get fully informed.