There is no denying that we have made great progress toward

"There is no denying that we have made great progress toward gender equality." These words from Stephanie Coontz reflect a profound truth: that while the journey toward gender equality is far from complete, significant strides have been made. They acknowledge the progress that has been achieved, while urging us to recognize that the work is ongoing. In the ancient world, the concept of equality was often seen as a luxury for the privileged few, and the very notion that women and men could be equal in status or rights was unheard of. Yet, the seeds of progress were always present, though the path toward equality would take thousands of years to be fully realized.

Consider, for example, the Roman Empire, which, for all its grandeur, was built on systems that excluded women from most aspects of public life. Roman women had few rights, particularly in matters of inheritance and public representation. Yet, there were women like Livia Drusilla, the wife of the Emperor Augustus, who held significant political influence behind the scenes. Livia’s quiet yet powerful role in shaping the imperial succession is a testament to the fact that even in societies where gender inequality was institutionalized, women found ways to wield power—albeit in hidden forms. Coontz’s words acknowledge the evolution of this quiet struggle—how the voices of women have grown louder and more forceful over time, leading to the progress we now celebrate.

The fight for gender equality reached an inflection point in more recent history. Consider the struggle of Susan B. Anthony, one of the central figures in the women’s suffrage movement in the United States. In the mid-19th century, the idea that women could vote was unthinkable. But Susan B. Anthony, along with countless other suffragists, spent years battling to change this, often facing ridicule and imprisonment. Their efforts culminated in the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which granted women the right to vote in 1920. This was a monumental victory in the battle for gender equality—a reminder that progress, while slow and often painful, is possible when people are relentless in their pursuit of justice. Coontz’s recognition of great progress echoes the sacrifices and victories of these pioneering women.

The 20th century saw further significant advancements. Women began to enter the workforce in greater numbers, and the feminist movement gained momentum, demanding equality not just in the home, but in education, business, and politics. Icons like Gloria Steinem, Betty Friedan, and Rosa Parks were emblematic of this wave of change. Steinem, a leader of the feminist movement, advocated for equal pay, reproductive rights, and a woman’s right to control her own destiny. Rosa Parks, whose refusal to give up her seat on a segregated bus became a symbol of resistance, helped bring attention to the interconnected struggles of both gender and race. These women, and countless others, fought for a world where gender equality was not just an ideal but a real possibility. Coontz's statement calls us to reflect on how far we’ve come since these struggles, and yet how much work remains to be done.

The progress that Coontz refers to is not merely in the realm of politics or the workforce—it is evident in everyday life. Women now serve as heads of state, business leaders, and scientists, making their mark in fields once thought to be beyond their reach. Angela Merkel, the Chancellor of Germany, led one of the world’s most powerful nations for over a decade, a symbol of female leadership in politics. In science, women like Marie Curie and Rosalind Franklin defied the limitations placed on them by their time, advancing the understanding of radioactivity and DNA. Their accomplishments are a testament to the fact that gender does not determine one’s potential. Coontz celebrates these victories, acknowledging the long history of resilience that led to these breakthroughs.

But the journey is far from over. Despite the significant progress that has been made, gender inequality persists in many corners of society. The gender pay gap still exists, with women often earning less than men for the same work. Women of color, in particular, face even more severe economic disparities. Violence against women, including domestic violence and harassment, remains prevalent worldwide. The struggle for gender equality is not just a battle of laws, but a battle of minds and hearts—of convincing individuals and societies to fully recognize the value and worth of every human being, regardless of their gender.

The lesson of Coontz’s words is both a call to celebrate the achievements of the past and a reminder of the work still ahead. While we have made great progress, we must never become complacent. True equality will only be realized when women are no longer discriminated against, when they have equal access to all opportunities, and when society fully embraces the belief that gender is not a determinant of a person’s worth or potential. The work of gender equality is ongoing, and it is our duty to carry this torch forward, ensuring that future generations live in a world where the progress we have made is not just acknowledged but celebrated in every aspect of life.

So, future generations, remember this: the road to gender equality is long, and though we have made great strides, the journey is not over. The progress we celebrate today is built on the sacrifices of those who came before us, and it is our responsibility to continue their work. Whether through education, advocacy, or personal action, strive to create a world where equality is not just a dream, but a living, breathing reality for all. Never forget that the fight for equality is not just for women but for humanity, for when we uplift one group, we uplift us all. Let us be the generation that brings gender equality into the world in its truest form—across every boundary, in every land, and for every person.