Being woman is expensive

Jeniel Lamb

4 years ago

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Now you understand 
Just why my head’s not bowed. 
I don’t shout or jump about 
Or have to talk real loud. 
When you see me passing 
It ought to make you proud. 
I say, 
It’s in the click of my heels, 
The bend of my hair, 
the palm of my hand, 
The need of my care, 
‘Cause I’m a woman 
Phenomenally. 
Phenomenal woman, 
That’s me.

Phenomenal woman by Maya Angelou speaks about the things that are innately woman. This poem was published in 1995 and a lot has changed since then- women need way more to meet certain invisible standards. These standards are pricey, painful and time consuming.

There are aspects of being a woman that are not a choice and yet it requires being paid for, the use of sanitary items are pricey and taxed, while menstruation is not a choice. Therefore girls from as early as age 9 are forced to incorporate sanitary items in their routines. Prices ranging from $300- $1500 per pack.

There is also how one wants to present themself- women based on societal standards upkeep their hair, body and skin and to do so, takes money and time. 

The hair industry makes millions every year because of this- both hair care, hair extensions and hair dressers. there is also acrylic nails-if you you subscribe to such styles is costly.

Skincare has also taken off with aestheticians becoming more and more relevant. The skin care industry makes money off treating women with facials, promises of flawless skin and pampering. there is also creams, serums and tools targeted to women wanting better skin.

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