Come November 25, the entire world contributes to the International 16 days of activism against gender violence. This has been observed in America for the past 20 years, but youngsters in India are realising this initiative only now. Youngsters will celebrate women and voice their views on violence. To promote this cause, Must Bol is encouraging young minds to blog on these 16 days till December 10.
“Violence happens against women and men. Our Must Bol Men Say No campaign encourages men to take up serious action to eradicate violence against women. Women need to realise violence meted out towards them and fight back,” says Kuber Sharma, a coordinator. They believe that a man should be able to proudly say that he is a home maker. “Society pressures on men force them to be an earning and independent entity,” he adds.
On this common platform, youngsters will voice their woes about gender discrimination and other related biases, some stories will be narrated and personal experiences shared. “On this blog, I will narrate a horrific experience my friend had on the metro in Delhi. This will make people realise that many daily gestures go unnoticed as they become part of our routine,” says Pulkit Mogha, a student. He feels that he can express his opinion freely on this blog.
One might wonder if blogging is the best way for such a discussion. Sukanya Sen, a film maker and an active blogger says, “Blogging is an elitest activity and not many people who are victims of violence have access to such a forum. This will just build a community of people who speak a common language.”
Gender bias is a universal issue that needs to be tackled. “Men are the perpetrators or the victims of this gender discrimination. They need to realise this and try and put a stop to it all. Say no when domestic, physical, or emotional violence is happening around you,” says Pramada Menon, a queer feminist activist.