[Get Involved Tuesdays] Half the Sky

I received "Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide" and read it in an afternoon. Not only easy to read and comprehend, it gives a compelling overview of global oppression of women with an equal balance of individual case studies and academic reports. The topics range from sex trafficking, coerced abortions, female genital cutting, rape as a war weapon, women's education, the HIV/AIDS epidemic, and the list goes on. The book is inspiring without being overly optimistic, pointing to larger structural policies in place and their benefits and faults. My three courses last term at LSE were Gender & Modern Theories, Foundations of Health Policy and Gender & Social Policy. It seemed that 10 weeks of intense reading were broadly summed up in this short book - I loved it. For anyone who is new to worldwide feminist issues, especially those in developing countries, this is a must-read. And for those who need to brush up, this work is equally fascinating. In addition, the compilation of women's organizations will prove invaluable when I begin looking for jobs in a couple of years. Read "Half the Sky" and look into the different options both large and small that you can get involved in. I'm browsing Kiva.org now for possible opportunities!