EDITORIAL
Each year on November 25th, the world recognises the United Nations’ International Day For the Elimination of Violence against Women.
On Sunday the occasion passed with little fanfare, however with 16 days of activism scheduled to follow there is still time for individuals to highlight the topic and for the public to gain more awareness and get inspired to join in the campaign, the aim of which is to galvanise action to end violence against women and girls around the world.
One may believe that in this age of enlightenment and sophistication, violence against women is fast to becoming a thing of the past. Yet, while this is true in many societies, far too many still consider girls and women unequal to males and still do not afford them a similar level of respect.
A large part of this problem is cultural. Young boys are not raised to believe in gender equality and girls are raised to expect poor treatment.
In a past article in the Guardian in the UK for instance, young males in India aired their belief that “girls are so foolish and silly, they have to be beaten so they can get some good ideas in their brains…” while the mothers and sisters in this same community assert that “all men beat their wives, one day you will do the same, it’s what do to be manly…”
This type of gender inequality is evident in several Middle Eastern states and is reported frequently. Stories of girls being kidnapped and sold into slavery or passed on as spoils of war are found not only in history books, but are based on happenings in many African states even to this present day, with the group Boko Haram becoming notorious for attacking and kidnapping girls from their families. Also, the custom of female genital mutilation still exists and the fight against this atrocity continues.
Still, the unfortunate truth is that violence against women is also found in so-called liberated Western societies, especially in the form of domestic abuse. Many male sports stars and movie celebrities use their fame and influence to cover up their horrific actions against females and for years this has been swept under the carpet by those at the top.
Changing times
Fortunately this is beginning to change, especially with the rise of the #metoo movement which, though not aimed at violent actions per se, focuses on the victimisation and manipulation of women, usually at the hands of males.
As we continue in these 16 days of activism, we urge all Barbadians to take a moment to reflect on the women in your life and the roles they play in the community. Be introspective and acknowledge gender biases, and make an effort to change for the better.