Equality mismatch

AS GENDER equality remains a goal in our constitution and that of many of our leaders to rightly address the inequalities faced by women at different economic and social levels, I felt it necessary to contribute my thoughts to this issue.

Commendably, there has been an increase in competent women in the workplace, inspiring younger women to enter into previously male-dominated industries, thus adding value in ways only a woman can.

The issue in contention, however, is the use of men as a barometer of competence. In addressing inequality we advocate women being treated the same as men forgetting the diversity and differences in gender.

South Africa alongside other nations around the world has an overwork culture. To succeed in the corporate world there is an increasing expectation of longer hours; and commitment is shown by a willingness to drop everything to fulfil work commitments. Does our National Development Plan 2030 envision government beginning at home? Do homes not suffer at the cost of pursuing equality in an overwork culture? There seems to be a mismatch between our goals and our practice.

The work-life balance that many women struggle with is often at the cost of relationships at home rather than work. Many women argue that if men took on more responsibility they wouldn’t have such a burden to bear; that were work practices not biased towards men, women would be better able to contribute in other areas.

While there may be merit to these views my point here is simply to challenge the goal of gender equality. We are equal in dignity, but different by God’s design. This should be reflected in work flexibility, which is considerate of the different responsibilities women often have in their homes. Londi Mshololo Muizenberg