“Rather than reading up on the history of feminism, I want to do something concrete.”
This is from a most
unexpected source, as it came from an avid reader who is a feminist
(and partly radical at that). Thought not very encouraging, it reflects
the attitude of the women of today. Not satisfied with just mere
knowledge about feminism, but determination to go out there to do
something about the gender inequality. A ‘can do’ attitude is the way
to bring about a change. More women today are realising that they have
been or being given a raw deal when compared to men. Thought most do
not give credit or forget the few who brought about this change of
thought.There are usually three types of feminists, the ones
who oppose any male practice and question the need for men in society
(the radical feminists), the ones who ask for a change in the attitude
of men towards women to bring about a change in the existing system
(liberal feminists) and the ones who enjoy the liberty brought to
society by feminism but do not want to give up a few privileges of a
male dominated society (dormant feminists).Most feminists fall into
the latter types, radical feminists do initiate the change by asking
questions but sustenance proves to be a problem.The description
of the last category is not to demean these women but to make them
realise the contribution of feminism to their lives and society.
Feminism seems like an old movement which began in the 60’s and now
seems to be ageing with few interested in knowing about the cause. “I
am allowed to go to college, work and earn my living, is that not
enough?” Many women are content with these benefits, but who gave them
these rights? There were many sacrifices by feminists which brought
about a change in society. Are these efforts to be taken for granted
and not acknowledged?Reading might not change society
overnight, but it brings awareness and provides inspiration to bring
about a change. Men should be encouraged to read about feminism as it
introduces them to a new perspective, a new way to think. Naturally
thinking about discrimination one would never face and actually be a
part of (even involuntarily) is unlikely. No man would naturally think
“I wish I were a girl so I could be free to take my own decisions in
life.” In an inherently patriarchal society men have the upper hand and
most do not know that it is unfair.Women must be more vocal and
express their feelings the media and spread awareness. Mass Media is a
powerful tool which cannot force a direct change but make people think,
the attention given to the Jessica Lall and Priyadarshini Matto cases
created public opinion forcing a retrial. Alas, the percentage of
coverage given to women and their presence in media is not very high.The
media alone cannot bring about the change, every woman must first be
made to realise that women are equal to men and can demand equal
rights. Not everyone can do something that brings about an immediate
change but start by changing one woman’s opinion of herself. The men
must be taught not to be insensitive to this change and women can and
will bring about this change. Be the change.
M.A in Mass Communication from the University of Hyderabad, worked for
Hydrogen Youth Magazine Hyderabad (now Chill @ Hyderabad) for a year.
Worked for many television channels like CNBC-TV18, MAA TV, ESPN-STAR
Sports.
