Gender equality is not just a catchword, it is a fundamental human right. To truly understand and address the complex issue of surrounding gender equality, we need to look through the lens of feminism. Feminism is a multifaceted movement that offers invaluable insights and tools to combat the inequalities and injustices that persist in our communities in our daily lives.
In this article, we will explore how a feminist perspective can help us make progress toward a more equitable world for all genders.
With that said I hope you are viewing feminism from a perspective of equality and not hate for men as perceived.
To understand the root cause of gender inequalities we need to understand the structures in place that act as a determinant of what is suitable for each individual. One major oppressive structure is patriarchy. Patriarchy is a social system where men hold disproportionate power and privilege, while women and marginalized groups face systemic oppression. By acknowledging the existence of patriarchy, we can identify the structural inequalities deeply ingrained in our society.
Gender equality, inclusivity and intersectionality go hand in hand and they are crucial for building a progressive society which leaves no one behind as the mantra for the sustainable development goals suggests. Feminism emphasizes the recognition of the complex identities that exist within our societies and acknowledges that gender intersects with other facets of identity such as race, class, sexual orientation, and disability. This perspective allows us to grasp the unique experiences and challenges faced by individuals who belong to multiple marginalized groups. To achieve gender equality we must address these interconnected forms of discrimination that limit the experiences of other individuals.
Traditional gender roles and stereotypes limit opportunities and perpetuate harmful expectations. Feminism challenges these norms, advocating for a more inclusive understanding of gender. It promotes the idea that individuals should have the freedom to define their own identities, irrespective of societal expectations. Gender roles are harmful as they limit a person’s experience by dictating what is suitable and appropriate for individuals.
One of the most tangible manifestations of gender inequality is the wage gap. As the recent research by UN Women suggests no country in the world has been able to bridge the gender pay gap, 21% of women earn less than men working the same job in the Eastern and Southern Africa region. The gap exists even after accounting for the average differences in women’s and men’s education, seniority and work experience, and type of job. This leads to lifetime income inequality between women and men and further contributes to women’s poverty. Feminism advocates for equal pay for equal work and urges society to address the systemic factors that contribute to this disparity. Achieving pay equity is a critical step toward gender equality.
Reproductive rights are an integral part of gender equality. Feminism champions access to reproductive healthcare services, contraception, and safe and legal abortion. These rights are essential for women’s autonomy and control over their reproductive choices. It is estimated that every year at least 2,600 women die from unsafe abortions in Kenya, while 21,000 more women are hospitalized annually due to complications arising from incomplete abortions whether spontaneous or induced.
Feminism confronts the scourge of gender-based violence, which includes domestic violence, sexual harassment, and assault. It calls for legal reforms, robust support services, and cultural shifts to eradicate such violence. Building a society free from violence is a shared responsibility and requires everyone’s involvement.
women and marginalized genders are still underrepresented in politics, media, business, and other spheres of influence which perpetuates inequality. Feminism advocates for increased representation and diversity to influence policy and challenge existing power structures.
Promoting gender equality in education is vital. Feminism encourages reforms to eliminate biases in the curriculum and supports women and gender studies programs. Education plays a crucial role in reshaping perceptions and fostering a more inclusive society. It is also important to give everyone information through education so as to make choices that are informed.
Feminism emphasizes that achieving gender equality is not solely the responsibility of women or marginalized genders. It calls upon individuals of all genders to be allies, actively supporting and amplifying the voices and experiences of those facing discrimination.
In conclusion, Gender equality through a feminist lens is a vision of a world where all individuals, regardless of their gender, have equal opportunities, rights, and respect. By embracing feminism and adopting its principles, we can work collectively to challenge the deep-seated inequalities that persist in our society. We acknowledge the strides that have been made and are continuing to be made so as to empower individuals, challenge stereotypes, and dismantle oppressive systems, forging a path toward a more equitable future for all.
Blob by Zawede Nzisa