Pretest
Women's Right
Because I'm Only a Woman
Elena Cortez wanted to work as a "gasoline girl" in a station in
Novaliches. She was interviewed by the owner. Here is a portion of the
interview.
Mr. Perez (owner): I'm very sorry, Ms. Cortez. I cannot hire you for this
kind of work because it is for men only.
Elena: But sir, I can do the work very well. In fact, I'm used to doing men's
work. I am very good at car repair and even in driving. I have successfully
completed the car mechanics trade test of TESDA. I'm sure that I can handle
whatever task you will give me in this gasoline station.
Mr. Perez: I'm really sorry. I cannot take you in. As I said, the work is for
males only. Why don't you apply somewhere else? Maybe you can find
another work more suitable to a woman.
Answer the questions below.
1. What is the story about?
2. Elena has the required work experience and trade test certificate
to work as a "gasoline girl," but why wasn't she hired for the job?
3. Do you know of other examples of employers who do not like to
hire women even though these women are able and willing to work?
4. If you were Elena, what would you do? Why?
5. What do you think are the reason(s) why there is discrimination
against women in our society, particularly why employers prefer to
hire men rather than women in their companies?
6.Give some rights that many women in our society do not enjoy.
​