YJA Convention 2002 07 NJ Fifth

Author(s): Young Jains of America (YJA)
Publisher: Young Jains of America YJA USA

Page 87

A Women's Role in the 21st Centun Sadhvi Shilapiji | Sarina Jain | Chhaya Kapadia 1 Shayna Pareki
As we progress into the 21st century, women are be Mahavir has preached equality for all, do all Jains
coming more recognized in social and professional follow this teaching and when have you encountered settings, thus, enhancing the portrayal of women alto- either equality or inequality? gether. This session will be lead by 4 prominent women What is the status of women in Indian society? Does leaders in today's society. It will also reflect Jainism's view that differ from status of women in Western society, on the role of women. We decided to choose this topic if so, how? because to most people the role of women in Jainism is Did Jainism play a role in decisions you make toeither undefined or not even discussed. Also, most people day, if so how? do not even know the exact role of women in Jainism, or if Ideally men and women should be equal but even they even have a specific role. This session is meant to for a liberal country as the United States it isn't, how answer any of the questions a person might have on the can we change that? role of women in Jainism.
As our religion and ethnicity separates us from the
majority what obstacles have you encountered beOur panelists include Sadhvi Shilapiji, Sarina Jain, Chhaya cause of your ethnicity? Does that reflect on both Kapadia and Shayna Parekh. In this session, you will have men and women? an opportunity to ask any of these 5 women about their goals or achievements. You will also learn about the lives Some background information on these women is of these 5 individuals and how being a woman has help or included in this book. The purpose to get women hurt them in any way. You will also be able to discuss any from all walks of life is to get an overview on how difficulties or challenges they might have had because they each woman tackled life. Although the session has are women.
moderators that will ask preselected questions, the
audience will have an opportunity to ask the panel Some questions posed to the panel can include:
questions. I What obstacles have you faced in any project you are involved in? With all that is said about a woman's role in Jainism do you agree or disagree with the inequality that can exist?
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