How YOU can help stop sexism

November 27, 2019

Human rights continue to be a prevalent issue in today's world. How can you create change in your community, and globally?

While women's and girls' rights may be better in some places than others, no country has achieved gender equality yet. In theory, gender based discrimination/violence is a thing of the past. It's certainly not allowed in the developed world; it hasn't been lawful for many years. But that doesn't mean it doesn't happen. Today, we discuss how you can take a stand against it.

Educate Yourself

Your first step towards solving any problem is being knowledgable on that topic. We recommend exploring the UN Women site, specifically their 2018/2019 Annual Report. It's also a great idea to look at what Iceland is doing/has done to rank first in gender equality. If you want to look even further, you can also look at past/current action, like the #MeToo Movement or the HeForShe Movement.

Call People (Including Yourself!) Out

Sexism is often ingrained into our culture, and undermining women and girls can be accepted as commonplace. Your job as a global citizen is to stop that. When a friend, peer, or even a stranger uses offensive or derogatory language when referring to women or girls, let them know that it's not okay.

This isn't always intentional; unconscious biases (here's an article on that) that you may have can also hold women/girls back. Let's see if you have any of these biases. Is your first reaction to these statements that they're true, or that they're false? (be honest!)

Women are better at childcare.

It's weird for men to wear dresses.

Women are emotional.

Men are more aggressive.

Chances are, you answered 'true' to some of those. Or maybe you answered 'yes, but-'. And that's not your fault. However, it is your responsibility to change that. So, next time you think something like this, challenge your biases.

Take Action

• Attend an event

Going to strikes or protests for causes you believe in is great, but if you're looking for a more calm and perhaps more positive way of taking action, consider going to an event of people who believe in the same cause to begin open discourse.

• Send a letter

Is their a law in your hometown, province/state, or even country that you believe is unjust and/or sexist? Send a letter to the relevant official expressing your concern.

In Conclusion...

Remember that small actions can create a big difference. Encourage your friends to help you in the fight against sexism, and good luck!