changing the conversations

In 2024, it's worrying that the conversation around women's safety often revolves around what they should or shouldn’t do to avoid unwanted attention. This approach unfairly puts the onus on women to protect themselves instead of addressing the root issue: the behaviour of others. Instead of telling women to dress a certain way or avoid specific places, we should be teaching everyone, particularly men, about respect and consent.

    The real problem isn’t what women wear or where they go. It's about the attitudes and behaviours that allow harmful actions to continue. Society needs to shift its focus from telling women how to avoid trouble to educating people on how to behave respectfully.

    Education plays a key role in this change. From a young age, children should learn about personal boundaries, empathy, and the importance of mutual consent. This isn’t just about sex education but about teaching respect and understanding in all relationships. When boys and men are taught to value and respect others as equals, it helps build a more respectful society.

    It’s also important to challenge and change harmful stereotypes about masculinity. Boys and men should be encouraged to express their emotions healthily and reject aggressive or disrespectful behaviors. Positive role models who demonstrate these values can influence others and set a good example.

    Public awareness and community involvement are crucial as well. Media should portray respectful behaviour positively and challenge harmful stereotypes. Community programs and discussions can help foster a culture where respect and consent are the norm. 

By focusing on these educational and cultural shifts, we can work towards a world where everyone feels safe and respected, not just by changing how women act, but by improving how everyone behaves.