Understanding Gender Bias and Discrimination

-Sandhiya N

Many people simply fail to understand the opinion on Gender, whether it's a discrimination, bias, stereotyping, or empowerment Majorly, confusion is between Gender bias and Gender discrimination, so it should be crystal clear in the mind By definition, gender bias refers to the attitudes that are held towards people on the basis of their gender Gender discrimination refers to actions or practices that disadvantage people based on their gender.

Individual Perspectives

Sruthi T, a final year student says, “According to me, Gender discrimination is not just about equality but more about the empowerment of women who have been suppressed in their thoughts and actions from the ancient times till today” Rahul R, a B.Tech Student, says, “First in my point of view, we can't just give a binary answer to this, I think it all started when people generalized the personality and characteristics of men and women, stating this is how a men/women should be”. Sandhiya D, a working individual says, “In my own opinion, First of all, gender bias has not completely vanished Though various steps had been taken by the government and other activists, it still remains a great challenge”. Geffrina Sharon Says, “Even at homes we are treated differently, they give freedom to boys to have fun but restrict girls to have fun.”

Evolution of Opinions

Opinions on gender bias and discrimination change over time, influenced by knowledge, experiences, and societal shifts. Both men and women have faced struggles, and their voices reflect the society's evolution. The patriarchy and misogyny have been ingrained in society for ages, making it challenging to change mindsets.

Education and Liberty

Mrinal Pande emphasizes the need to address gender bias and discrimination Education and liberty for both men and women can bring about positive changes. It's essential to recognize that men and women can be themselves, without conforming to traditional gender roles As Mrinal Pande says, "When you people don't love girls, Why do you pretend to worship them?" This highlights the hypocrisy in societal attitudes towards women Adding Michael Kaufman's lines, "To liberate women, we need to liberate men from the notion that they must always be in control and dominant." This stresses the importance of challenging traditional gender norms and promoting equality.

Creating Change

To create lasting change, we must engage in open discussions, listen to diverse perspectives, and educate ourselves and others We need to challenge our own biases and assumptions, and work towards a society that values individuality and promotes equality.

*Picture in Header : Art Illustration portraying Women of different colour (Picture credit: Adobe Stock)