A talking point that often comes up when discussing feminism in the United States is the fact that women are not currently subject to registering for the draft. How do you think women should be treated in this regard? Some say women ought to sign up for the draft in order to achieve true gender equality. Others believe the draft should be abolished altogether. And some believe only men should be drafted. Where do you stand on this issue, and why? How do you think inclusion in the draft affects women's advancements in the military and society as a whole?
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Bhavana Ravala
Aug 1, 2017
Women and the draft
Women and the draft
3 comments
In my opinion, all qualified individuals should be allowed to be included in the draft. Some people argue than due to pregnancy and 'higher chances of rape' by misogynistic societies, women would be a liability. Nonetheless, women often bring other skills to the table, such as interpersonal skills. While sexism may prevent advancement in the military for women, inclusion in the draft is a step forward for gender equality, in my opinion.
It's interesting that you bring up the option of abolishing the draft altogether. While America's all-volunteer force is quite productive, the future is uncertain in terms of military combat and future wars. (https://warontherocks.com/2016/02/why-we-still-need-the-draft/)
In my opinion, the draft is unnecessary. At this time, our military has more than enough soldiers and other personnel thanks to programs like ROTC and JROTC that provide participants with many opportunities in the military and assist with education. These programs do not discriminate based on gender and provide equal opportunities for advancement to both men and women as long as they work hard, and are incredibly attractive to youth.
From what I have read (http://www.stanforddaily.com/2011/04/08/op-ed-rotc-and-women/), programs such as ROTC and JROTC truly do hold women to the same standards as men.
I also agree that a draft is currently unnecessary. The majority of people who would be eligible for a draft would most likely not meet the required physical fitness standards and a volunteer force is also more economically sustainable, as it would have a lower turnover rate than if the force was conscripted.