The quote suggests that despite the significant progress made by the feminist movement in the 1970s and afterward, there persists a widely held belief or myth that educated women are less desirable as marriage partners. This notion implies that even with increased educational attainment among women, societal perceptions regarding their suitability for marriage have not fully evolved.
At a deeper level, this statement challenges the idea that social progress in terms of gender equality is always straightforward and linear. It highlights how certain stereotypes or myths can endure despite substantial changes in laws and cultural norms. The persistence of such beliefs underscores the complexity of changing long-held societal attitudes and the challenges faced by women who aspire to both educational achievement and marriage on their own terms. Additionally, it suggests that while significant strides have been made in areas like legal rights and professional opportunities, there remains a gap between these advancements and their acceptance within personal relationships and social expectations.
Karen DeCrow is an American lawyer and former president of the National Organization for Women (NOW), a prominent feminist organization dedicated to advancing women's rights. Her work has focused on various aspects of gender equality, including reproductive rights, employment equity, and combating discrimination against women in all spheres of life.
