Seven Saudi women recently took part in a seminar organized by one of the local papers to take up the issues of women, their rights, and their place in Saudi society. This followed an earlier broadcast of Saudi women’s concerns on satellite television.
As more such groups and discussions take place, may I propose that they form a coalition called SNOW — Saudi National Organization of Women. Under this umbrella, active participation and effective dealings with issues would probably be more fruitful than ad hoc gatherings whose intent is forgotten soon after the conclusion of the symposium or seminar.
An awareness campaign to educate women must be set up by women. SNOW chapters could be set up in the key cities with realistic agendas that affect their existence. Topics that directly concern them must be formally addressed to the respective legislative authority. Key ministries whose laws directly affect women must employ women in decision-making positions.
With thousands of women graduating and waiting for jobs, there has never been a better time to address the unemployment dilemma for women and to understand the cultural limitations thrust needlessly upon them that impede their taking up jobs.
As an example, let’s do away with all men working in shops catering by and large to women, such as cosmetics, lingerie, and boutiques. The finance departments of most public and private sectors could easily set up sections that employ those women who have graduated in economics or business administration.
The telephone company could gradually introduce women operators in their hundreds, as well as the national airline, which could employ thousands of Saudi female in-flight personnel to cater to the passengers. We have heard of Saudi women working in these sectors in neighboring countries. Why not make it easier and closer for them right here? There are other large corporations that could also take up the challenge in employing some very bright and energetic women.
The myth that a Saudi parent frowns upon the idea of his daughters working has vanished over the years in the face of economic realities. And rather than having these girls sit at home with nothing to do and possibly getting into harm’s way, allowing them an outlet of their own choosing would certainly go a long way toward minimizing the social pressures on unemployed and unmarried daughters.
And let them drive if they want to, or if they cannot afford to be driven. The expenses of hiring drivers or buying additional cars limits most women to very desperate and helpless situations by having to depend on the whims of their male guardians to get them around.
But while the mythical snow often fails to materialize in this part of the world and shatters hopes, let us hope that the determination of Saudi women to make their lives better does not melt away.
