The exploitation of women

I am growing increasingly tired of seeing women exploited, not only by the media and entertainment industries, but sometimes by their own families.

Women are frequently taught that exposing their bodies will bring attention, money, fame, or career opportunities. When a woman expresses discomfort, the people around her may pressure her to ignore it by telling her that the opportunity will advance her career or make her more successful.

Exploitation does not become empowerment simply because money or fame is involved. If a woman must be pressured, manipulated, or gradually persuaded to cross a boundary she initially established, we should question whose interests are truly being served.

Leviticus 19:29 warns, “Do not profane thy daughter.” Although the historical context is specific, the principle still causes me to reflect on the responsibility families have to protect their daughters rather than encourage others to profit from their bodies.

Adult women have the right to make their own decisions. However, genuine choice should be respected in both directions. If a woman chooses not to expose her body, that boundary should not be treated as an obstacle to overcome.

We cannot continue to treat women’s bodies as commodities while calling it opportunity. Families should be places of protection, wisdom, and support, not another source of pressure encouraging women to compromise themselves for attention or financial gain.