Editor,                       

ONE would think that a country like ours, with a high number of women active in politics, commerce, education etc would have moved past the issue of sexism, double standards and pure disrespect for the female gender. This is a response or a mere complaint to the ignorance that was demonstrated by Martin Bishop in his article "Naughty Night Babes”.

It is unbelievable to think that some individuals actually still feel that women who have achieved a certain level of intelligence and maturity are not allowed to socialize in public areas without being looked at as lacking in self-respect.

This article brought to light what continues to be the existence of doubles standards within the Rwandan society. Women have been encouraged to rise up and be independent individuals but then people lurk at every corner ready to bring them down.

The writer mentioned that the women that he sees at the night clubs are doing nothing but dancing and enjoying themselves. It seems to me that Bishop’s ideal club scene would only consist of men.

We are encouraged to pursue careers and education but clearly some people feel that we don’t deserve the same privileges as men. It is not to say that I support young girls going to night clubs and participating in degrading activities but I think it is time that unfair scrutiny, especially by men who act the exact same, if not worse, is halted.

Last time I checked we advocated equality for all Rwandans and I feel that those self-imposed rules should apply to both genders. The writer did not intend to disrespect women but that was what it seemed like.

Janet and Grace Karemera   
karemeraj@hotmail.com