Discrimination

I have been reading, following a lot about the Blank noise Project which is very commendable – fighting against sexual harassment on the streets, in homes at work places…
We need more awareness that this is NOT something which happens, something which should be taken in stride and more men need to get themselves involved in the same.
But, at the same time, when we do a reality check on what’s happening around us –
it’s really disheartening to know that how much ever you may fight, this is one battle which we are losing and one which we women have lost before we started fighting…

Before any of you raise your voices, let me give a few examples…

For a child to come up to his/her parents and tell that some "uncle/aunty" touched you in the wrong way - the parents should trust their children...
One of my very close friends was molested for 5 yrs by her Table tennis coach - when she spoke to her parents about this, she was spanked for telling untruths about such a "nice" man!!!
She grew up - a bit twisted, she distrusted all men and boys in her life and had never fallen in love till she met her husband (arranged by her parents).
But, thank goodness that now after years of stable friends, and a very good husband she is
alright. Even till date, her parents don't believe her... whose fault is that?

How any of us have really helped out a girl/lady in distress in a bus stop, canteen, college campus when she is being harassed by guys? Very few dare to voice out... all that most of us do is bend our heads and walk away very fast, praying that we are not targeted next...
Very few of us actually hit, punch back when a guy touches us.
How many parents out there teach their sons and daughters to respect one another?
How many parents teach their sons to respect girls and women and teach them that they are equals and should not be treated badly?
I have seen mothers discriminate against their daughters and favor the son - what kind of impression are you as a parent building in the mind of your young son?
I have seen my friends being discriminated baselessly against their brothers.
My best friend was denied milk and ghee in her diet while she was growing up because her brother needed more...
her brother is a grown man who doesn't respect any of the women in his life - wife, mother or sister.
What kind of an example is he setting for his children then?
the argument is a long one and will not end...
I will end this post by saying that unless we change our mental makeup and the way we function in our society, this battle can't be won.
It's wonderful to know that small steps are being taken, but do remember when you have children - you make sure that as a parent you teach them trust, respect, kindness towards fellow human beings is very important.