Women on Top

Priscilla at the Castries Market

Something I find rather fascinating about this island, that I've never experienced before, is the unique power balance between men and women. Saint Lucia is third among the 106 countries studied where a majority of  businesses are women owned and managed (link to Washington Post article at the bottom). 

Mahlin Hanging Out

Women here run the show!  I notice this as I walk down the beach, and a local affectionately refers to me as, "Boss Woman".  Or, an enterprising local offers to be my "housewife".  Men of all ages roost at the waters edge smoking and playing dominoes while women hustle in the markets selling vegetables and crafts while managing babies and toddlers. You just don't see that many local women hanging out during the week. 

In the Spice Islands people are spicy.  Flagrant use of sexual innuendo is rampant, even in the workplace.  I know his intentions are good, but why is a 20-something flirting with me?  Well, he's not necessarily. Most often a flirt or inappropriate comment is by way of a compliment or light banter.  The local women may use the opportunity to put the guy down with a humorous jab.  Me? I redirect the conversation. Anywhere else is fine! 
Happy Women's Day.

 https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2015/01/13/the-three-countries-where-your-boss-is-more-likely-to-be-a-woman/