The new law in Zambia giving an optional “Mother’s Day” every month for menstruating women is gesture that may lead to more controversy than good. This law is a nice gesture that is meant to give women an optional day of leave when their cramps leave them sick and in pain. Though it serves as a step in “the right direction” it may not be as good as it seems. In a country where these topics are taboo it has sparked more negative attention than good. A lot of women in Zambia do not have the ability to take painkillers and do not have access to necessary toiletries. This is where the day may serve as a good idea. It gives women who had severe symptoms a chance to take a day if the pain is unbearable. But it also allows women to take advantage of the day and use the day a personal day. The men in the country are also very upset that women, who are considered less than, get a day off every month. This could prove as a dangerous situation for women as they have been encouraged not to make use of the day. Many women consider the day a step backwards; the day making them look weak and enhance the discrimination of women and young girls. I believe that the workplaces should provide toiletries and start making changes to strive for equality in the workplace. Hopefully there will be more changes for women as schools are starting to accomadate young women and these topics become more talked about.
