A Close Look at Saudi Democracy

Re “Saudis Gingerly Experiment With Democracy,” Feb. 10: As we prompt and often demand that other nations embrace our form of democracy, it might be prudent to briefly review the journey that began with our birth as a sovereign nation in 1789.

In 1789, white men with property were the only voters. By 1828 (39 years later), all white men could vote. By 1865 (76 years later), slavery was dumped.

By 1870 (81 years later), all men, except Native Americans, could vote.

By 1920 (131 years later), all women, except Native Americans, could vote.

By 1924 (135 years later), Native Americans could vote. By 1971 (182 years later), all men and women 18 years and older could vote.

I wonder what Saudi Arabia government will be like 182 years from now in 2187? What will we look like then?

Ula Pendleton

Los Angeles

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Democracy is something I couldn’t imagine living without. Yet while male Saudi Arabians went to cast their votes using this new “democracy” system, women were left home to tend to the family, cook, clean and perform endless chores.

It isn’t fair that these women, who are just as capable as the men, are left at home to clean.

I hope that in the future, countries that don’t treat women equally realize women can be just as driven, powerful, witty, smart and firm as men, if given the chance.

Emma Esrock

Los Angeles