Madison, WI (AP) – A recent report in Ms. magazine reveals that millennials born between 1989 and 1999 are more likely to complete a bachelor’s degree compared to Gen X women. This finding also indicates that the wage gap has slightly narrowed for millennial women. The report presents positive progress in terms of education and income equality.
In addition to educational advancements, the report highlights significant milestones in the fight for reproductive rights. Vice President Kamala Harris announced a Reproductive Freedoms tour that will start on the anniversary of Roe v. Wade in Wisconsin. This initiative aims to promote the right of every woman to make decisions about her own body. However, challenges persist as exemplified by the case of Brittany Watts, who is facing potential jail time for “abuse of a corpse” after experiencing a miscarriage. Traci Timko, Watts’ lawyer, emphasizes that no one should be criminalized or punished for a miscarriage, emphasizing the need for reform in this area.
The Ms. magazine report also features the reflections of Shannon Watts, founder of Moms Demand Action, on her years of activism against gun violence. Watts underscores the importance of women and mothers in organizing effective movements and advocates for stricter gun control measures.
Other milestones include the successful opposition by the Democratic Women’s Caucus against anti-abortion policies and Pope Francis’ formal approval of blessings for same-sex couples. While seen as a step towards inclusion, critics argue that the new rules still treat gay couples as inferior.
The report also highlights concerning trends. Suicide rates have almost doubled for women compared to the Gen X generation, with Native American women and women of color experiencing disproportionate increases. Homicide rates and maternal mortality rates have also surged, with Black women at a higher risk. Additionally, the report notes that 75 anti-LGBTQ bills became law in 2023, with bans on gender-affirming care for minors being the most common type.
Despite these challenges, the report identifies areas of progress, such as the record-breaking enrollment in health insurance coverage through the Affordable Care Act marketplace. However, it also highlights the importance of continued efforts to expand healthcare coverage and lower prescription drug costs to bridge the gap in uninsured Americans.
The Ms. magazine report concludes by discussing how a recent study confirms that being a feminist does not equate to hating men. The study found that feminists generally hold positive views towards men and believe in the similarity between genders. Furthermore, the report evaluates the representation of abortion care in TV shows in 2023, noting an increase in the portrayal of medication abortion but a lack of diversity in the characters receiving abortions.
Overall, the report showcases the progress, challenges, and opportunities for continued activism and advocacy in various areas of women’s rights and equality.