Break patriarchal shackles

THE success of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children, that concluded on December 10, rests on our daily individual and collective actions to safeguard society against this circle of abuse.

Some of the cases of violence against women and children stems from the low status of women in the home and in society.

It happens when men abuse power and positions of authority to control women and children.

South Africa is still home to high levels of violence against women and children, despite a world renowned constitution and a legislative overhaul that safeguards women’s and children’s rights.

The Bollywood movie Secret Superstar is a story about a 15-year-old schoolgirl whose spirit is ripped because her mother is in a troubled and violent marriage.

She still dares to pursue her dream of becoming a singer and also valiantly attempts to free her battered mother from the shackles of a loveless marriage.

The teenager wants the world to hear her voice and appreciate her talents.

The only problem is her temperamental and orthodox father.

He’s the closeted and abusive head of the house, who just doesn’t understand. He beats his wife at a whim and doesn’t even acknowledge the emotions of his daughter let alone acting upon them.

The climax of the film at the airport, where he is about to leave with his wife and children to work and live in Dubai, and where the wife has second thoughts about going with him, is simply riveting.

In orthodox societies, the dominant role is often played by the husband or father and so much so that any instance of questioning his authority is construed as undermining the authority of the patriarch. What must be understood by those who contribute to this customary dominance, is that women and even children have the same mental capacity in making reasonable decisions.

It is important that there is interaction, debate and discussions on issues that may be controversial. When such democracy prevails that family is wholesome.

It is also known that many privileges western women and children enjoy are taboo in certain patriarchal societies.

Until recently, women in Saudi Arabia were barred from driving motor cars and, worse still, there are certain societies where girl children are not permitted to study.

If the world cannot adapt and adopt the changing trend of a dynamic society then that society is doomed to failure.

I hope the 16 Days campaign prodded the conscience of those who abuse women and children. JAYRAJ BACHU Clare Estate