Can culture and women empowerment co- exist? — a response
The above question in my opinion is yes but not without some changes. First and foremost I think it is prudent for us to understand what culture means and how it influences the society we live in and ultimately who we are as individuals. Culture basically refers to a system of beliefs, values, and practices that influence human behavior thus dictating their way of life. It is a creation of the members of the society and guides how people interact with one another and how relationships of power are negotiated. It is this that determines how people perceive women’s role in society and this can affect the pace at which societies develop.
Culture should be interrogated to determine whether it is positive or negative: is it right? Is it a systematic way of perpetuating an injustice against a section of the population? Quite often, people just say it is our culture to as the answer to the question whether it’s right. If it is positive, there is no need to eradicate it. If it is the opposite, then its destruction is inevitable. The subordination of women is a universal phenomenon, albeit different in nature and extent across different cultures and societies. The domineering male factor and stereotypes emanating there from, female genital mutilations, societal assigned gender roles as well as the boy child preferences over the girl child on matters education are some of the major obstacles standing in the way of women empowerment.
The culture of suppression of women and the dehumanization of women cannot continue being the norm. Women constitute almost half of the world population and their socio-economic, religious and political empowerment in different fields of life becomes indispensable. Economic participation and empowerment are fundamental to strengthening women because it gives them control over their lives. It also enables them to exert influence in society and become leaders in various aspects of society. Empowering women is pertinent in stimulating the society for political and social- economic empowerment which ultimately means grater development experienced in the society.
A response by Kerigo Odada that I am absolutely in love with.
- I look forward for the Gender Inclusion in the African context conversation. Get in touch founder@mamaglobal.co.ke for any more information.
