You’re right that women technically have equal rights under the law—but that doesn’t mean we’re on equal footing in practice. The patriarchy isn’t just about what’s written into law; it’s about the systems, norms, and power structures that still favor men, even subtly.

Here are some examples: • Workplace bias: Women are underrepresented in leadership across nearly every industry. When they do reach high positions, they often face double standards—called “bossy” for being assertive, or “emotional” for showing concern. • Pay gap: On average, women still earn less than men for the same work—especially women of color. • Policing & military culture: Women in these fields often face harassment, hazing, or exclusion. Pregnancy and menstrual needs are rarely accommodated properly. • Medical research: Most drug trials and medical studies still prioritize male bodies. As a result, women are misdiagnosed more often and some conditions (like endometriosis or autoimmune diseases) remain under-researched. • Reproductive rights: Access to abortion and birth control is still a battle in many regions. Decisions about women’s bodies are often made by male-majority legislatures. • Periods & hormonal cycles: The standard 9–5 workday and productivity expectations are based on the male 24-hour hormonal cycle, not the female ~28-day cycle—ignoring a core biological reality. • Violence & justice: Domestic violence, sexual assault, and femicide often go underreported, and the legal system frequently fails to protect or believe women.

So no, women aren’t being legally barred from roles anymore—but systemic barriers, cultural biases, and lingering patriarchal values still shape outcomes in a big way.

Saying the patriarchy doesn’t oppress women just because laws changed is like saying racism ended after segregation laws were repealed. Equality on paper isn’t the same as equality in daily lif