What sounds like a jingle from the 1950s has actually become a very powerful slogan for women’s rights in India. I always wondered if women would begin to gain a foothold in status when the population of sex-selected children were able to marry. Now the disproportionately low number of women can advocate to have their voices heard. Women can afford to be choosy when selecting a husband, and the government of India has capitalized on that luxury.
“No Loo, No ‘I Do’,” the government’s slogan reads, advocating for more sanitary homes and a correspondingly healthier country. The government encourages women to refuse to marry a man unless he is able to provide her with a toilet.
It’s clever, it’s witty, and let’s be honest: it is a BRILLIANT move, considering that half of India lacks access to a latrine. Not only is the campaign allowing for a more rapid, grassroots-driven development, but it also promotes the status of women.
Well done, India. You can learn more about this new initiative HERE.
Hey Sonja I was just up to some random facebooking when I came across your blog. It’s pretty sweet to see all the places you’ve traveled and your insights! This no loo i do thing is actually awesome. I’ve been to India 5 times and can tell you first hand that more toilets would be much appreciated. Although you do learn to appreciate what you have a lot more after staying in the villages for a couple nights. I also found that they get pleasure from the little things in life while we’re chasing after next advancement (do we have toilets w/ ipod docking stations yet? haha). Anyways just wanted to say hello, and I will keep you bookmarked. Later