What if the American women who have finally found the courage to speak up against sexual harassment, lived in openly patriarchal societies in the other parts of the world such as the Middle East, India, China, Africa, Malaysia, Indonesia, etc., where women face different forms of sexual harassment from the moment they step out of their homes, sitting in a cab, walking in a side-street during the afternoon siestas, shopping in crowded streets, hearing the vulgar commentary about their looks or outfits while minding their own business?
It is great that women are finally speaking up in this country but it takes a lot more than simply exposing a few powerful men to censure, to stop sexual harassment and sexism towards women.
It is the culture that has to change and that won't happen overnight or by some decree from the Supreme Court. How about we start by teaching our sons good manners and respect towards the opposite sex, and self-respect and courage to our daughters?
Not only men should learn to behave more gentlemanly but women also need to elevate their self-respect and virtue above short or long-term monetary gains. It is hypocritical to play along and take advantage of the sexist system when it is to our advantage and then call foul years later when we are already over the hill!
We have to raise our daughters in such a way that they can not be silenced and bought with money. It takes two to play this game, and if women knowingly and willingly participate in this game to advance their careers or finances, then they are just as guilty as men.
It is great that women are finally speaking up in this country but it takes a lot more than simply exposing a few powerful men to censure, to stop sexual harassment and sexism towards women.
It is the culture that has to change and that won't happen overnight or by some decree from the Supreme Court. How about we start by teaching our sons good manners and respect towards the opposite sex, and self-respect and courage to our daughters?
Not only men should learn to behave more gentlemanly but women also need to elevate their self-respect and virtue above short or long-term monetary gains. It is hypocritical to play along and take advantage of the sexist system when it is to our advantage and then call foul years later when we are already over the hill!
We have to raise our daughters in such a way that they can not be silenced and bought with money. It takes two to play this game, and if women knowingly and willingly participate in this game to advance their careers or finances, then they are just as guilty as men.
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