Contrast the gender roles of white, African-American, and latino females - Essay Example

Through the ages, status of women has been subservient to men mainly because of patriarchal society that restricts the freedom of women. Feminist movement has been an important landmark that has worked towards women’s empowerment and their equal rights. But while the expectations from women and perceived roles of White, Afro-American and Latin females have been varying, the fundamental demand for gender equality has been a common factor. In mainstream white society, White women have been more empowered by education and increased opportunities for outside work.

The economic freedom has given them more decision making power but by and large, they are still expected to do the house work as well as look after children even when they put in same amount of time to work outside. In Afro-American community, women share household chores with their male counterparts as well as work outside to contribute in the household expenses. There is inherently more equality between genders. Women are encouraged to become independent from childhood and share work with men and not become reliant on men for their requirement within and outside marriage.

In Latin and Hispanic culture, women are still regarded as mother and wife rather than acknowledged as women with decision making powers. They are still dominated by socio-cultural paradigms that have restricted their role in society. Child care is still the most important duty of women. Interestingly, their role as wife is subservient to mother. But while they are empowered to make decisions about their children, they are still dependent on their husband and male relatives for their needs and requirements.

(words: 263)