Gender inequality is not just a women’s problem. It is a human problem. For society to prosper, everyone must play a role in dismantling the structures that continue to perpetuate gender inequality. Men tend to hold higher positions in many societies, especially in countries like Nigeria, where patriarchy is widespread. This is quite appalling, but it also gives them a unique opportunity to be an ally in the fight against inequality. Here are some ways men can play their part in creating a more just world.
Teach Yourself And Others
The first step for men is to understand things. Know the history, causes, and consequences of gender inequality. Read books, watch documentaries, and listen to women’s experiences. Use this knowledge to educate yourself and others whether through conversations with friends, at work, or posts on social media platforms.
Challenge Stereotypes And Biases
Gender stereotyping is quite often the basis of inequality. Men should reject harmful ideas about masculinity, challenge norms that promote domination, anesthesia, or devaluation of the caring role, teach, and support boys and young men in embracing diverse expressions of masculinity, and encourage them to value qualities such as empathy and fellowship.
Support Equal Opportunities
In their workplaces, communities, and homes, men should support initiatives that promote equal opportunities for women. This includes supporting policies such as parental leave for both parents. equal pay and anti-bullying measures, mentoring women, and ensuring their voices are heard in decision-making processes.
Lighten the Burden at Home
One persistent form of inequality is the unequal distribution of household responsibilities. Men can help by splitting time equally between housework and child care. This is especially prevalent in what I would term the ‘traditional Nigerian home’, where the mother is expected to come home even after long and stressful days and still take care of the entire family either by cooking or doing some other chores by herself without any help from her husband. This practice has to come to an end.
Speak Out Against Inequality
When you see sexist behavior, jokes, or policies, speak up. Silence can perpetuate harmful beliefs, especially since silence is often translated to mean the acceptance of a thing. Use your voice to call out injustice and demand accountability. This is especially true in male-dominated areas where such behavior often goes unnoticed.
Support Women’s Leadership
Men can play a role in breaking down barriers to women’s leadership in politics, business, and communities, voting for women leaders, encouraging them to take on leadership roles, and supporting campaigns that emphasize women’s participation.
Create Safe Spaces
Gender-based violence is one of the most severe manifestations of inequality. Men can help create a safe environment by challenging toxic behaviors, helping the survivors, and participating in projects that raise awareness about violence prevention.
Be Open to Other Opinions
Being a friend means accepting that you don’t have all the answers. Be willing to listen to women’s experiences and perspectives without being defensive. Accept that constructive criticism is an opportunity for growth and improvement.
Support Organizations that Focus on Equality.
Volunteer or donate to organizations working to address gender inequality. Be it an NGO like Shades of Us focused on women’s health, education, or economic empowerment, or other organizations, your time and resources can make a difference.
Lead By Example.
Ultimately, actions speak louder than words so, demonstrate respect, fairness, and equality in everyday interactions. Use your influence to persuade other men to join the movement.
Gender equality can only be achieved when everyone comes together to challenge the status quo. Men play an important role in this journey. Not as a ‘savior’ but as a partner. By committing to these activities, men can participate in the promotion of a world of opportunity, respect, and dignity.
What other ways do you think men can participate in the fight against gender inequality? Join the conversation in the comments below.
How Can Men Help Reduce Gender Inequality?
By Precious Olayinka
Gender inequality is not just a women’s problem. It is a human problem. For society to prosper, everyone must play a role in dismantling the structures that continue to perpetuate gender inequality. Men tend to hold higher positions in many societies, especially in countries like Nigeria, where patriarchy is widespread. This is quite appalling, but it also gives them a unique opportunity to be an ally in the fight against inequality. Here are some ways men can play their part in creating a more just world.
Teach Yourself And Others
The first step for men is to understand things. Know the history, causes, and consequences of gender inequality. Read books, watch documentaries, and listen to women’s experiences. Use this knowledge to educate yourself and others whether through conversations with friends, at work, or posts on social media platforms.
Challenge Stereotypes And Biases
Gender stereotyping is quite often the basis of inequality. Men should reject harmful ideas about masculinity, challenge norms that promote domination, anesthesia, or devaluation of the caring role, teach, and support boys and young men in embracing diverse expressions of masculinity, and encourage them to value qualities such as empathy and fellowship.
Support Equal Opportunities
In their workplaces, communities, and homes, men should support initiatives that promote equal opportunities for women. This includes supporting policies such as parental leave for both parents. equal pay and anti-bullying measures, mentoring women, and ensuring their voices are heard in decision-making processes.
Lighten the Burden at Home
One persistent form of inequality is the unequal distribution of household responsibilities. Men can help by splitting time equally between housework and child care. This is especially prevalent in what I would term the ‘traditional Nigerian home’, where the mother is expected to come home even after long and stressful days and still take care of the entire family either by cooking or doing some other chores by herself without any help from her husband. This practice has to come to an end.
Speak Out Against Inequality
When you see sexist behavior, jokes, or policies, speak up. Silence can perpetuate harmful beliefs, especially since silence is often translated to mean the acceptance of a thing. Use your voice to call out injustice and demand accountability. This is especially true in male-dominated areas where such behavior often goes unnoticed.
Support Women’s Leadership
Men can play a role in breaking down barriers to women’s leadership in politics, business, and communities, voting for women leaders, encouraging them to take on leadership roles, and supporting campaigns that emphasize women’s participation.
Create Safe Spaces
Gender-based violence is one of the most severe manifestations of inequality. Men can help create a safe environment by challenging toxic behaviors, helping the survivors, and participating in projects that raise awareness about violence prevention.
Be Open to Other Opinions
Being a friend means accepting that you don’t have all the answers. Be willing to listen to women’s experiences and perspectives without being defensive. Accept that constructive criticism is an opportunity for growth and improvement.
Support Organizations that Focus on Equality.
Volunteer or donate to organizations working to address gender inequality. Be it an NGO like Shades of Us focused on women’s health, education, or economic empowerment, or other organizations, your time and resources can make a difference.
Lead By Example.
Ultimately, actions speak louder than words so, demonstrate respect, fairness, and equality in everyday interactions. Use your influence to persuade other men to join the movement.
Gender equality can only be achieved when everyone comes together to challenge the status quo. Men play an important role in this journey. Not as a ‘savior’ but as a partner. By committing to these activities, men can participate in the promotion of a world of opportunity, respect, and dignity.
What other ways do you think men can participate in the fight against gender inequality? Join the conversation in the comments below.
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