Surjit Singh Flora
The UN celebrates ‘Women’s Day for Freedom from Violence’ on November 25. There is much discussion about protecting women from discrimination, beatings, and mental and physical violence. All these words mean that one in three women worldwide has been physically, psychologically, or financially abused. Despite every nation sympathizing with them, little legislation favouring women has been passed. The government spends more than 5% on this task, which is tragic.
It is claimed that even a mother cannot give milk without her child crying, so what is wrong with someone who should speak up against her injustice? The research shows that five or more pregnant or newborn females are murdered every hour without publicity. Even more shocking are the abortion feticide figures. Society frequently speaks about treating males and girls equally and offering them similar opportunities.
Male society seduces females with education, work, independence, marriage, dowry, and rituals and traditions.
To become physically and psychologically strong, women must not rely on anyone for money and reap the rewards of their hard work.
The same goes for working women and company owners who don’t respect others’ salaries. Her advice is to live alone or separate if compelled. An example is Melinda Gates, one of the world’s richest women, who launched a campaign among women in some backward areas of The UN International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women takes place on November 25 every year since 2000 for governments, international organizations, and non-governmental organizations to raise awareness of violence against women. There are many discussions about protecting women from discrimination, beatings, and physical and emotional abuse. All these words mean that one in three women worldwide has been physically, psychologically, or financially abused.
Unfortunately, society denies and ignores violence against women. Men controlled their women this way decades ago.
Yes, many girls of today are educated and smart, having learned about law and society, or patriarchy. They spared only rapists because they could not tolerate tyranny. In many places, cultures and religions still tolerate it.
Unbelievable. A woman’s house is one of the most unsafe locations.
According to the WHO, an intimate partner murders at least 40% of women worldwide. A spouse has physically or sexually abused one in three women worldwide-1.3 million.
Women experience violence throughout life. Violence occurs inside and beyond their families. However, the mother and her parents mistreat her from birth and throughout her life.
Paternalism is the biggest source of violence against women now. The belief that men are stronger and superior. Lack of security makes women fearful. Rape, acid assaults, beatings, and torture are physical acts of violence.
As a woman grows up, she plays several roles that strain her mental health. Having a ‘perfect’ wife, ‘loving’ mother, and ‘caring’ daughter-in-law harms her mentally.
Working Women – Male dominance and stereotypes also limit working women’s growth. Women are regularly questioned about sexual professional growth. However, their job division demonstrates society’s prejudice. Women are only suitable for pink-collar positions like nurses and teachers.
Seniors inflict the most violence against women. Their spouses or children are there to protect elderly women. Their finances prevent independent decision-making. Dependence severely damages their mental health.
To protect your daughter from violence, educate her! People only speak out against someone who isn’t educated enough to defend themselves, in my experience. Slapping his working wife-who does that? Who is an IAS, IPS, engineer, doctor, teacher, and list goes on.
Domestic abuse is not a women’s concern. This affects families and communities.
We can all help stop violence against women (VAW) in different ways, depending on our roles – as parents, men, women, victims, or perpetrators.
Family is where it starts. Teach your daughter to be strong, courageous, and outspoken. This will help her face challenges and speak up when necessary. Teach boys to love and respect their peers, regardless of gender. Love and treat your children equally, without gender discrimination, so they will adopt that attitude as they grow up.
Everyone should speak up against VAW. A lackadaisical attitude will empower the perpetrators. Be supportive and encouraging to victims, not judgmental.
No need to feel ashamed, it’s best to speak out and get help. Take action to hold the perpetrator accountable. Condoning VAW worsens the problem, it won’t make it disappear.
There is just one option for the perpetrator: Stop The Violence.
(The writer is a veteran journalist and freelance writer based in Brampton Canada).