How to Volunteer as a Women's Rights Advocate

Women's rights have come a long way in the last several centuries, but there are still many issues that plague women and keep them from achieving equal status with men in the U.S., and it is even more of a problem in developing countries. If you are disturbed by violations of women's rights, perhaps you can make a difference by volunteering as a women's rights advocate.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Research current issues on a website like WHRnet (see Resources below). In your own community, this may include unequal pay for equal work, discrimination in the workplace, sexual harassment, abuse and poverty. In developing countries, women may also have to face the sex-slave trade, sexual exploitation and nonexistent legal help.
2. Join the National Organization for Women (NOW), which has spent decades obtaining better rights for women (see Resources below). By joining NOW, you can become involved in a local chapter of the organization, support reproductive rights and help stop violence against women and sex discrimination. The organization has a history of making changes in legislation by using grassroots campaigns and awareness education.
3. Become a more active part of NOW's cause by applying for any of the employment opportunities listed on its website instead of participating as a volunteer advocate.
4. Volunteer as an advocate for the Equal Rights Advocates (ERA) organization, which is dedicated to obtaining equal rights for women and focuses on bringing cases to court (see Resources below). If you are an attorney, the organization offers opportunities to both refer and co-counsel key cases. The website also provides resources for holding house parties that boost awareness about the work ERA does and raise money for the cause.
5. Create your own group dedicated to raising awareness and giving women more rights. You can advertise and attract the attention of local women and organizations interested volunteering their time and donating money. You may want to focus on local issues and address local-government bodies about national issues.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that women outside of developed countries have fewer rights than you do. Support organizations that are attempting to free women in developing countries from slavery and give them and their families better lives.