Sign of the times

I occasionally share observations on this blog about life in Maldives outside the newsroom. No intent to offend, just to share some of the interesting cultural differences through American eyes. I had to smile at these signs, which would be politically incorrect in the US. Ironically, the Maldivian attitude toward women is quite progressive. Wearing the head covering, or burugaa, is a personal choice and it is illegal to wear the more conservative head gear that covers the face. Women can hold any and all powerful jobs, up to and including president. The attorney general, surgeon general, education minister and gender minister are all women. I have worked closely with many educated and powerful women both in and out of the newsroom. Maldives' constitution even has an equal rights amendment, while the US does not.
Journalism training note: A female person 18 and over is referred to in news copy as a "woman," and a "girl" is for females under 18.