A century of female lawyers in Spain: legal transformation and gender equality progress
Women Pioneers in Spanish Law: The Courageous Journey of Victoria Kent
In 1925, when women in Spain were still denied basic civil rights, Victoria Kent made history by becoming the first female lawyer admitted to the prestigious Bar Association of Madrid. Her debut case, a criminal trial, drew the attention of the entire profession, and her subsequent acquittal served as a significant breakthrough for women in the legal field.
Carmen de la Guardia, a professor of Contemporary History at the Autonomous University of Madrid, emphasizes the hurdles faced by trailblazers like Kent and Clara Campoamor. "In a profession as male-dominated as law, they were pioneers, and their immense passion made it possible for them to practice," she says. Kent's global reputation and success expanded beyond Spain.
Kent opened her own law firm and was known for her advocacy for workers' rights. She also served as the Director General of Prisons during the Second Republic and spearheaded a prison reform focused on education and reintegration. Her reforms, built on the foundation laid by Concepción Arenal, included abolishing shackles, ending physical punishment, and hiring appropriate professionals.
With the advent of the dictatorship, the first female lawyers, including Kent, were forced into exile, halting the progress made in their field. María Luisa Balaguer, a magistrate of the Constitutional Court, recounts the significant obstacles women faced in resuming their legal careers during the Transition.
The legacy of women like Kent serves as a vital reminder of the struggles faced and advances made in women's rights, particularly in the professional realm. Estela Martín, president of the Equality Section of the Bar Association of Madrid, encourages gratitude for the pioneers who paved the way and emphasizes the need to guard against regressions.
Kent remains an inspiration for women facing similar challenges in their professions. Her story underscores the importance of remembering and honoring those who have broken barriers and opened doors for future generations. Despite the hardships faced by women in the past, many dreams remain unfulfilled, as de la Guardia mourns the missed opportunities for her older sisters.
The average woman in the field of law, a century ago, could not have imagined reaching positions of power, as Venezuela's Victoria Kent had achieved. Passionately advocating for issues ranging from science and health-and-wellness to mental health and women's health, Kent's groundbreaking achievements continue to inspire women today.
