Latest update March 28th, 2024 12:59 AM
Nov 25, 2022 Letters
Dear Editor,
Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is often only seen as physical violence against women and girls. This limiting definition leaves out some important elements of GBV that unfortunately result in it constantly being framed as a matter that only affects those of the ‘weaker’ sex. GBV however, is all-encompassing in nature as it also affects men and boys, and is inclusive of violence such as sexual, emotional, economic, and psychological.
Men need to have a vested interest in combatting GBV through their individual beliefs and behaviours and that of their peers, as many harmful stereotypes such as, ‘the way a woman dresses determines her worth’, or indicates consent, and ‘men and boys must be aggressive and in control’, are at the root of many cases of GBV. This is partly due to our societal narrative that dictates how women and girls should act, and how men and boys are taught that any deviation from these social expectations is reason enough for them to exert control and violence against others. Stereotypes, such as a man must be the provider in the home, can also contribute toward GBV cases as they often come along with the belief that women should not work, or that they must be earning less than their partner in order not to threaten their manhood. This can often result in the very intentional controlling of women’s finances in order to keep them dependent.
Beliefs and practices such as these must be actively challenged by men whenever they come up. Being your brother’s keeper does not mean supporting them in behaviours that harm others. It means holding them accountable and pushing them in a direction that is positive. Teaching young boys about the importance of equality and shifting beliefs such as ‘woman’s work’ can go a long way in lessening the relevance of harmful gender roles that continue to impact us. It is also essential to teach young boys how to channel aggression in healthy ways, so that violence and controlling tactics are not the tools they readily reach for when facing conflicts.
Men can support survivors of GBV by holding abusers accountable for their actions and supporting survivors of violence. This means moving away from ideas that often see them judging or doubting survivors of GBV, and instead creating a supportive space for them to come forward.
Yours faithfully,
Akola Thompson
Communication Consultant, ChildLinK
To report or seek counselling, please call 914/227-0979/227-2023/233-3500
THIS IDIOT TELLING GUYANA WE HAVE NO SAY IN THE 50% PROFIT SHARING AGREEMENT WE HAVE WITH EXXON.
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