Equality Essay

It is often said that we learn from our past, but is that really true? Inequalities have existed in our society for thousands of years; from the kings verses the surfs in medieval times, to the treatment of slaves, to the inequalities of women. Today we still have people who face prejudice and inequality every day. If we really learn from our past, why does inequality still exist? Why can’t we live to the belief that “all men are created equal?” Our society today is, however, a lot better than it was when the United States first became a nation. The examples of past inequalities have shaped today’s society because we now have an increased minority participation in the government, equal education is promised to everybody, and most people have the chance at any job they want. In today’s government, there are 61 women in congress, and 13 in the senate. 36 blacks and 24 other minorities were also elected into congress. (congressional, 2001) When the first members of the United States congress were elected into office, there were no minorities or women included. Back then, it would be unheard of for a woman or a freed slave to help run the country. Blacks first started to be elected into congress after the civi

In this case, a fifth grade black girl, Linda Brown, was not allowed to attend the school that was closest to her because she was not white. Title IX was a huge step for women athletes and coaches, because it prohibited anybody from excluding someone from participating in, or reaping the benefits of any education program or activity receiving Federal Assistance because of their sex. However, most women are still employed as teachers, clerical positions, factory work, retail sales, and service jobs. Thus, they had to take the jobs nobody wanted, including coal mining and building railroads. This was made possible by the passage of Reconstruction Acts by congress, which enabled free male slaves to vote. This allowed girls to participate in any sport offered, as well as be capable of getting into college with an athletic scholarship. Segregation of schools for the blacks and unequal treatment toward women has resulted in our government being pounded by lawsuits. The glass ceiling and the prejudices of people still hold back minorities and women from high level jobs, but thanks again to the lessons learned from past inequalities, more jobs are available for them then ever. Education is a subject that has often caused arguments in our society. However, as discrimination against blacks and other minorities lessened, the job opportunities became greater. However it wasn"tmt always that way. The glass ceiling is, in short, a term used to describe an apparent barrier which makes it difficult for women and minorities to make it to the top of the corporate world. Rankin pushed for the passing of the 19th amendment, allowing women the right to vote. Because of that discrimination, Title IX was passed in 1972.