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Instead of saying Saudi Arabia now lets/allows women to drive let's say the ban on women driving was lifted.
First of all, when the powers that be "allow" an oppressed group a right, they can withdraw it again if they like.
So using the word "allow" reaffirms the legitimacy of the decision-makers.
Secondly, it's not like a right to drive was first introduced for men and it's now extended to women.
Women were purposely *banned* from driving. It was a conscious decision to reserve this right for men.
We need to name the oppression. Men banned women from driving.
Women weren't asking for permission. When driving licenses were introduced (by men) they were exclusively introduced for men.
Saudi feminists have fought for years to lift the ban on women driving. So let's give them the credit they are due.
Men are only giving in because the women would not relent. Not because they suddenly saw the light.
Remember, every right that is "given" can be taken away again. That applies to women all over the world.
That said, I'm so so happy and proud of our Saudi sisters that they have won this fight. Male guardianship next!
