Elizabeth knew that knowledge gained through education opened up many opportunities for women. For starters, a job brought in money that could buy bread.
Having challenged social norms to gain an education for herself, she wanted other women to have freedom of choice. Choice of how they lived their lives and free from the domination of men – fathers, husbands and bosses.
In 1869 Elizabeth wrote in The Education for Girls:
The desire for education which is widely felt by English women … springs … from the conviction that for many women knowledge is the only way to get bread.
women at work
For years, alongside her many other campaigns, she worked to improve education and employment for girls and women. Today in this country we can celebrate the achievements of Elizabeth and other Victorians who worked tirelessly for female education at all levels and entrance to better jobs, including the professions. As young people around the country prepare for exams let us recall this was, for girls, a right that had to be fought for.
Female scientists at work
Sadly, it is a right that still needs fighting for in many countries; many girls around the world still struggle to gain an education. As stated by Unicef:
‘Investing in girls’ education transforms communities, countries and the entire world. Girls who receive an education are less likely to marry young and more likely to lead healthy, productive lives. They earn higher incomes, participate in the decisions that most affect them, and build better futures for themselves and their families.’ https://www.unicef.org/education/girls-education
Please buy my book for the full story of Elizabeth and how she transformed women’s rights. I am also pleased to accept invites to talk about her work. All profits are donated to charity – www.futuresforwomen – and the Moravian Women’s Association.
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