EMMA Watson has not reinvented the wheel in her speech about feminism and gender to the United Nations.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
She has simply given a very salient reminder that equality is up to all of us.
Her HeForShe campaign is about galvanising support for that very simple notion, a powerful jolt if you will.
“Why is the word such an uncomfortable one?” she asks of feminism.
“I am from Britain and think it is right that as a woman I am paid the same as my male counterparts. I think it is right that I should be able to make decisions about my own body.
“I think it is right that women be involved on my behalf in the policies and decision-making of my country. I think it is right that socially I am afforded the same respect as men. But sadly I can say that there is no one country in the world where all women can expect to receive these rights.”
It’s an uncomfortable word because no one wants to distinguish between gender, yet face the stark reality in daily living that discrimination still exists. If it is not pay rates, it is comment on dress and the very demeaning sexist remarks, as Apryll Glennie details in today’s article.
At its very basic level, gender equality is about mutual respect. That should be our starting point.
Society would probably rather not have the now infamous Julia Gillard misogyny speech, the Germaine Greers and Naomi Wolfs of this world speaking out. Some don’t even want to be labelled a feminist for fear of being tagged a “man hater.”
But until we have reached true equality where women don’t have to endure insidious treatment and remarks, these movements and speeches will persist.
Women should be able to feel comfortable in their own skin. They do not necessarily want quotas on female participation in senior positions, simply due recognition of skill.
That Prime Minister Tony Abbott could only find one position for a woman in his Ministerial line-up is a poor reflection on where we stand today.
If Emma Watson’s speech can help effect attitudinal change, even among the younger generation, it can only augur well for the future.
Associated coverage:
- Goulburn joins women's equality debate
- Pru helps break down gender barriers
