Mexico to Accept Women in Military

Mexican women, who have long sought gender equality, came a step closer to that goal Friday when the military said they would be allowed to join men in Mexico’s military service.

Unlike men, however, women’s participation will be voluntary, Military Service Director Jesus Rodriguez told a news conference.

Women joining the military will be required to attend six-hour training sessions every Saturday.

All Mexican men must report for military service when they turn 18. But because of the army’s limited budget, only 5% actually receive any training, with the rest obtaining waivers.