This archive report was first published on 22 August 2019.
On a typical day, many of us rely on the unsung heroes of our households – our housekeepers – to keep our lives running smoothly. But have you ever stopped to think about the weight of responsibility they carry on their shoulders?
For writer Elsie Eyakuze, her housekeeper, affectionately known as Housekeeper 2.0, is more than just a domestic worker – she's a guardian angel who allows her to pursue her passion for writing. Eyakuze shares her personal experience of relying on her housekeeper to manage the household, freeing her up to focus on her craft.
As Eyakuze notes, 'There is a reason why so many (not all) of us gain the stereotypical reputation of slightly wafty daydreamers.' But behind the façade of domestic bliss lies a complex web of expectations, responsibilities, and societal pressures that can be overwhelming. Eyakuze confesses that she often feels like she's 'losing her mind' trying to balance her writing career with the demands of domestic life.
However, Eyakuze's love for technology has been a game-changer. She advocates for investing in labour-saving devices to make life easier for both her housekeeper and herself. At the heart of all domestic work, Eyakuze emphasizes, is care – not mindless repetitive tasks that can be taken for granted.
As Eyakuze aptly puts it, 'Domestic workers' help has allowed many of us women to hold down jobs. In return, we owe them the respect of decent conditions and good wages as we wait for the playing field to level.'
Published on August 22, 2019, Eyakuze's article is a poignant reminder of the importance of acknowledging and valuing the contributions of our housekeepers. It's a call to action for us to recognize the value of their work and to strive for a more equitable society where everyone has access to fair compensation and decent working conditions.
