The Worth of a Home: Understanding Housewives as 24/7 Payable Jobs
Recently, Justice Matheka of the High Court in Kenya made a groundbreaking statement, declaring that carrying a 9-month pregnancy is equivalent to working and that being a housewife is a full-time payable job. This declaration sheds light on the often unrecognized but vital role of housewives in society. Let us delve deeper into the rationale behind this decision and explore why it is justified.
Justification Behind the Statement
Justice Matheka's statement aligns with an age-old philosophy that marriage is tied to the notion of progeny, providing for an individual's well-being in old age, ensuring a peaceful resolution to life. The act of pregnancy and motherhood, as well as the responsibilities of a housewife, are integral to maintaining a society and providing for the next generation. These responsibilities are profound and require significant effort and dedication.
The 24/7 Nature of Housework
Being a housewife is far from a part-time or easy task. The homes they build and maintain are akin to day jobs that run 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Tasks such as child-rearing, healthcare, education, and instilling values are continuous and constant. Unlike traditional nine-to-five jobs, there are no set timings for housework. It is neither a 9-to-5 job nor a part-time activity; it is an all-encompassing role that demands constant attention and effort.
The responsibilities of a housewife are multifaceted. They start early in the morning before others even wake up, attending to the well-being of their children, preparing meals, and ensuring a hygienic and comfortable living environment. Throughout the day, they manage household tasks, including cleaning, cooking, and maintenance. In the evening, they continue their efforts, often balancing these responsibilities with their own health and social life. Often, a housewife's duties extend far beyond the domestic sphere, including community involvement, social engagements, and caring for extended family members.
The Value of Housework Beyond Recognition
It is essential to understand that not all jobs are recognized and valued by society in the same way. The efforts and time invested in homemaking and child-rearing are every bit as significant as any job in the formal workforce. Often, these contributions go unnoticed because they are not formal or paid positions. However, without the stability and support provided by a well-maintained home and healthy children, society would not function effectively. The similar level of dedication and expertise required for homemaking is therefore valid and merits recognition.
Many studies and surveys support the idea that homemaking is a full-time, commendable job. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Marriage and Family titled "The Housewife's Burden: Structure and Equilibrium in the Family" found that homemakers devote significant time and effort to maintaining household functions and managing family dynamics. This is a Herculean task that requires constant recalibration and adjustment to meet the evolving needs of family members.
Relevance and Impact of Justice Matheka's Statement
Justice Matheka's statement has implications beyond just legal recognition. It can lead to a shift in societal perceptions, emphasizing the value of unpaid work and promoting gender equality. By declaring the work of a housewife as a full-time, payable job, the court acknowledges the importance of home maintenance and child-rearing in our society. This can also provide a framework for policy-making and legislative measures to support housewives, such as recognizing homemaking as a legitimate occupation and offering benefits similar to those of formal employment.
For instance, benefits such as social security, pensions, and insurance could be extended to homemakers, recognizing their contributions to society. Additionally, such recognition could encourage employers and businesses to include part-time or flexible work options that recognize and accommodate the work of housewives, thereby supporting work-life balance for all.
Conclusion
The statement by Justice Matheka is a step towards valuing the indispensable role of the housewife. By recognizing homemaking as a full-time, payable job, society acknowledges the immense value of this unheralded profession. It shifts the paradigm from regarding homemaking as a supplementary or invisible activity to one that is integral to societal functioning. As we progress, it is crucial that we continue to affirm and support the essential work of housewives, recognizing that their efforts are as valuable as any formal job and essential to a thriving society.