“One is not born a woman, but becomes one” by Simone de Beauvoir from “The Second Sex” (1949). This quote will stand correct in every political scenario running by gender stereotypes. This statement represents the idea that womanhood is not an innate quality but a social construct shaped by society and culture. In the past, the role of a woman was confined to household chores and motherhood. They were denied education which in turn could not create any opportunities in life for them. As a result, they have to be dependent on a man. 

Simone de Beauvoir argued that society’s expectations and norms dictated what it meant to be a woman. From birth, women were socialised into roles that limited their potential and freedom thus becoming ‘women’ according to patriarchal standards. Significant progress has been made in gender equality but the statement still holds relevance. Women still face societal pressures and gender norms that influence their roles and opportunities. For instance, women in many parts of the world still struggle against gender-based violence, wage gaps, and underrepresentation in leadership positions.

If we look at the current political scenario, women’s rights and gender equality remain contentious issues. Movements like #MeToo have highlighted ongoing struggles against sexual harassment and assault. Judicial combat over reproductive rights and gender equality laws reflect that gender norms and the fight for women’s freedom are still very much alive.

Simone de Beauvoir’s statement is still very important today. It highlights how society shapes our ideas of gender and stresses the need to keep challenging these ideas to achieve true equality. Even though we have made progress, the current political scenario shows that the fight for women’s rights and breaking down strict gender roles is not over.

References:

1. Simone de Beauvoir, “The Second Sex”
2. #MeToo Movement
3. Gender Wage Gap Reports