19th century Quote by Sheryl WuDunn
“In the same way that slavery was a moral challenge for the 19th century and totalitarianism was a challenge for the 20th century, the challenge that women and girls face around the world is the moral challenge of our time.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Remarks at UN Women Forum, 2015
Women’s rights are the pressing moral issue of today, akin to past struggles against slavery and totalitarianism.
In simple terms: Women’s rights are today’s moral challenge.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and act on gender inequality.
Themes
gender equality
human rights
social justice
Mood
determined
hopeful
Type
activist
inspirational
When to use this quote
- policy advocacy
- education reform
- community organizing
- media campaigns
Key Concepts
Moral philosophy
intersectionality
Questions to Reflect On
- How can individuals influence systemic gender bias?
- What responsibilities do societies have to protect women’s rights?
A Different Perspective
Addressing gender inequality also requires economic resources and cultural change.
![“. . . Luddites were those frenzied traditionalists of the early 19th century who toured [England] wrecking new weaving machines on the theory that if they were destroyed . . . old jobs and old ways of life could be preserved . . . At certain times in his life each man is tempted to become a…” quote by James A. Michener](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/182/james-a-michener-1627_19th-century_luddites-were-those-frenzied-traditional_76909.jpg)
