victims of abuse vs the patriarchy
The deep-seeded systemic value has been reverberated throughout the world this week- women’s experiences are not valued or respected. Especially when they oppose the status of a man.
Here is the proof that the patriarchy thrives in western society. It is alive and well.
This message has reflected the patriarchal value that there is a hierarchy and if you’re a white man in a boy’s club, you sit at the top. And you’re oblivious to what happens below.
The message is depressing af. But maybe it’s needed?
Maybe we need bad things to happen for us to implement change?
Maybe when the message is this obvious, people won’t question the importance of a feminist stance in today’s political climate?
No matter who you are, there is always a strength that you embody that can be used to assist another. That’s the beauty of humankind- our differences.
Maybe you’ve recognised your privilege as a white person, non-white person, educated person, wealthy person, powerful person etc. But don’t just observe it, act on it. Educate yourself on the issues others face, stand against rape culture and toxic masculinity. Don’t allow the vicious cycles of abuse to occur around you, no matter how subtle. Don’t expect a gold star for being a decent human being, just be.
People with a combination of toxic masculinity and a false sense of superiority are threatened by opportunities to show empathy because it requires an element of vulnerability. It’s what makes us human, it’s what helps us develop and connect.
Be vulnerable. Be uncomfortable. Have the conversation about why it’s important not to judge victims for not disclosing their experiences of abuse. Understand how trauma to the body and mind doesn’t make it that simple. Understand that abuse can often feel normal until the victim realises it’s not.
Respect the circumstances of people’s experiences. Not everyone feels safe enough to divulge the perpetrators of abuse. Not everyone can afford the financial repercussions of walking out, or speaking up. Experiencing abuse isn’t ‘rational’, so the way people manage it won’t be ‘logical’, because they’re surviving. And surviving abuse isn’t based on rational thinking.
Have the conversation about how there are double standards around women being emotional in professional settings and being labelled ‘unstable’, while men behave the same and are honoured.
It’s sexy when people can recognise and validate the discrepancies between others experiences in this society. And red hot when they educate themselves on how this patriarchal structure still stands, but is crumbling with every person who unifies, and challenges it.
