Misogyny is a deep dislike or hatred of women and girls. It can show up in many ways, from subtle things like everyday sexism to more extreme forms of violence and discrimination.
It can show up in lots of ways, from subtle things like jokes that put women down to more serious stuff like bullying, harassment, and even violence. Here are some examples:
- Stereotypes: Saying things like “girls are bad at sports” or “women are too emotional to be leaders” are harmful stereotypes that contribute to misogyny.
- Double standards: Judging girls and boys differently for the same behaviour, like calling a boy “confident” for speaking up in class but calling a girl “bossy” for doing the same thing.
- Sexism: Treating women differently based on their gender, like assuming they should do all the housework or cook for the family, or expecting them to dress a certain way.
- Objectification: Reducing women to their physical appearance and treating them like objects instead of people.
- Unwanted attention: Catcalling, whistling, or making sexual comments that make someone feel uncomfortable or unsafe.
- Controlling behaviour: Trying to tell someone what they can and can’t do, or who they can and can’t see, because of their gender.
The effects of misogyny can be harmful and far-reaching. It can hold women and girls back from reaching their full potential, make them feel unsafe and unheard, and contribute to violence and discrimination.
Here’s some things we can do to challenge misogyny
- Challenge your own biases and prejudices.
- Speak up when you hear sexist jokes or harmful stereotypes about girls and women.
- Treat everyone with respect and judge people based on their actions and merits, not their gender.
- Educate yourself about the history and impact of misogyny, and be an ally to women and girls.
- Support women and girls who are being mistreated.
Remember, misogyny isn’t just about individual acts of prejudice – it’s a system of beliefs and attitudes that needs to be challenged at every level. By working together, we can create a world where everyone, regardless of their gender, has the opportunity to thrive.
