Speaking Out & "Night"

Education can be provided to Ethiopian women only if this issue is brought to peoples' attention.  As of now, "only 16.7 percent [of Ethiopian women] are considered to be literate" ( Ruphael 1). This is due to the lack of attention, or indifference, shown towards the women, and people have accepted this issue without a question. Most women have established their role to be a mother, cook, and maid in their home. This has led men in Ethiopia, as well as people in other countries to believe these roles to be okay. However, the potential that women possess to go far in their life can never be reached if the situation remains as it is today. All that is needed to allow for this possibility is the voice of others. If other countries can encourage education in Ethiopia, then people will understand that something must be done. Ellie Wiesel, author of Night, emphasizes that "[indifference] benefits the aggressor" and "never the victim" (Wiesel 1). In other words, holding back will only make the victim appear inferior, while confidence and speaking out indicates superiority in the aggressor.  If people refuse to take a side women will remain incapacitated by their inability to receive an education. It is up to the bystanders, those lucky enough to be educated and to have these rights, to stand up and fight for others so that they too may gain these rights.

• "A Challenge To Girls Education In Ethiopia." A Challenge To Girls Education In Ethiopia. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 May 2013.
•  "The History Place - Great Speeches Collection: Elie Wiesel Speech The Perils of Indifference." The History Place - Great Speeches Collection: Elie Wiesel Speech The Perils of Indifference. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 May 2013.
• Wiesel, Elie. Night. New York: Bantam, 1982. Print.
• Picture Source: http://womenofvision.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/d115-0471-05_393939.jpg