The year of 2020 was a year full of tragedy, triumphs and change across the world. It’s easy to only look at the many losses we’ve faced this past year but even with such tragedies there was great change. In 2020 we saw positive changes when it comes to women’s rights and gender, we also saw progressive laws put in place to protect women as well as women in power making major power moves. Here are the 5 2020 highlights for women.
- United States elects first woman vice-president
The United States breaks down barriers by electing Kamala Harris as the next vice president of the U.S. Harris will not only be the first Black and indian American to be a major party’s vice presidential candidate but she will be the first woman to be elected as the vice president of the U.S. The U.S. will also have its first all women senior communications team.
- Kuwaiti places a new law for protection against domestic violence
Following years of activism from women’s rights activist groups a new law of protection from domestic violence was put in place in order to protect and help the women of Kuwaiti. The new law will provide shelters, counseling, legal assistance for survivors, a hotline for domestic violence complaints as well as emergency protection orders so abusers won’t have access to their victims.
- Scotland makes menstrual products free
In November Scotland became the first country to provide free access to menstrual products in public buildings which include public schools and universities. The Scottish parliament issued the period products bill in order to relieve women of the cost and taxing of menstrual products and ensure women are able to effectively manage their periods.
- New Zealand appoints first woman as Foregin minister
Back in November New Zealand appointed its first indigenous woman as Foreign Minister. Nanaia Mahuta is Maori which means she is an indigenous Polynesian from the mainland of New Zealand. Mahuta is also the first woman who is a member of parliament to wear a moko kauae, a traditional tattoo on her chin.
- The nation’s first openly transgender United State senator
Sarah McBride becomes the nation’s first openly transgender woman on the state senate. McBride won the seat in a two-person democratic primary. During McBrides’ campaign she focused on healthcare, infrastructure and schools.
Author: Khala Clarke