Language's Role in Excluding Women from Historical Narratives
The director general of Canada’s Integrated Threat Assessment Centre recently testified before the House of Commons Standing Committee on the Status of Women, emphasizing the growing relevance of anti-feminist movements to national security. He argued that anti-feminist ideology can facilitate pathways to violent extremism. This concern is echoed by the Canadian Research Institute for the Advancement of Women, which reports that misogynistic views are becoming entrenched in key institutions, influencing debates on education policy and hindering progress toward women's equality and human rights.
Historically, the exclusion of women from the term 'man' has deep roots in Western culture, tracing back to medieval debates on language and gender. The Book of Genesis presents two creation narratives that have shaped societal views on gender roles. In Genesis 1:27, the text suggests that 'man' encompasses both male and female, indicating equality in creation. However, Genesis 2:21-23 presents a sequential creation, where woman is derived from man, reinforcing a perception of women as secondary.
This interpretation has persisted through centuries, influencing theological, scientific, and secular thought. The term 'man' evolved into a default reference for males, evident in foundational documents of Western democracy. The French Declaration of the Rights of Man and the U.S. Declaration of Independence explicitly refer to men, neglecting women's rights. Early feminists like Mary Wollstonecraft and Abigail Adams challenged this exclusion, advocating for women's recognition and rights.
In contrast, the British North America Act of 1867 used the term 'persons,' which allowed for ambiguity regarding gender. The 1927 Persons Case in Canada marked a significant legal challenge against the exclusion of women from the Senate, ultimately affirming that 'person' should include women. However, legal recognition did not equate to equality, as women continued to face discrimination in various aspects of life.
The struggle for women's rights culminated in the inclusion of Section 28 in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, ensuring equal rights for men and women. Yet, as we navigate the complexities of the 2020s, the remnants of structural and linguistic inequality remain. The same logic that historically questioned whether 'man' included women resurfaces in contemporary discussions, particularly when anti-feminist movements frame women's rights as a deviation from a perceived natural order. This ongoing dialogue underscores the importance of language in shaping societal realities and the need for continued advocacy for women's rights and safety.
