“We Can Do It”!

‘We Can Do It’ is an American wartime propaganda poster that was used to promote feminism and other political issues.

The poster shows a lady who is dressed in a masculine style and is slightly muscular. However she celebrates being a woman with her painted finger nails and high eyelashes.  ‘We Can Do It’ depicts a woman during an era where women empowerment and gender transformation occurred. Women were a vital part in their contribution everywhere, collaborating in every possible way. 

Image credits :Wikipedia

J. Howard Miller, an artist was hired to make posters supporting the war effort in 1942.  Originally this poster had no intention of supporting women’s rights.  In fact it was created to keep production up by boosting the self- esteem of women.  This poster in later years has become one of the most famous icons of World War II.  Females responded enthusiastically to this poster and the number of working American women increased by 63% by 1944.

As women were encouraged to take wartime jobs in defence industries, they became a celeberated symbol of female patiotism.  The poster ‘We can do it’ has clearly stated that cultural assumption is not stereotyped; it is based on age,gender and lifestyle.  The rolled out sleeve and muscular arm depicted that women are strong and capable of doing things men can do. The text ‘We can do it’ brought about a strong impact. It convinced women to believe that they can do it and contribute to the country.  As the time changes, the meaning might change too. The text’We can do it’ brought a strong impact.  It convinced women to believe that they can do it and contribute to the country.  As the time changes, the meaning might change too.  People might interpret it according to the changing environment or developments witnessed.

My own perspective when it comes to understanding the poster and text is that women should have their own view point and identity.

Women, for instance Joan of Arc and Rani Laxmi Bhai have thronged the corridors of history for their courage and valour.  Society might have once questioned the guts of these women who have broken norms to prove their point.  However such women who dare to take the initiative have proven that “The journey of a million miles begins with one step”. This one step will help themselves and ultimately the country as well.