Debunking the myth continued

Myth #4: Gender Equality prevents women and men from holding or fulfilling their "wifely or feminine" or "husband and masculine" duties. 

Femininity is the collection of attributes, behaviors, and roles traditionally associated with women and girls in a particular society or culture. These include nurturing, empathy, sensitivity, emotional expressiveness, and roles such as motherhood, caregiving, and domesticity. However, it is essential to note that the definition and expectations of femininity can vary widely across cultures and historical periods and can be influenced by factors such as race, class, and gender identity. Femininity often contrasts with masculinity, which refers to the collection of attributes, behaviors, and roles traditionally associated with men and boys.

Masculinity refers to the qualities, characteristics, behaviors, and roles typically associated with being a male or masculine individual in a given culture or society. These can include physical attributes, such as strength and muscularity. And psychological traits include assertiveness, competitiveness, independence, and emotional resilience. However, it's important to note that masculinity is not fixed and can vary across cultures and historical periods. Moreover, gender is a social construct; therefore, masculinity is not an inherent or natural aspect of being male, but social norms, expectations, and values shape it.

The concepts of masculinity and feminity are social constructs, as stated above. And one might ask what gender equality, equity, and feminism have to do with the concept of feminity and masculinity. Well, if you look at the elaborate definitions I provided in part one of this essay, you will understand that these three concepts strive to allow both men and women to live the full expression of themselves. Whether it be "feminine" or "masculine" or any other mold they would love to create for themselves. 

Thus, under the canopy of gender equality, feminism, and gender equity, a woman or man should be allowed to become whatever they please, whether a homemaker, "househusband," celibate, lawyer, chef, doctor, or engineer. I would be naive to state that society is at a point where women and men can express themselves as they will without fear of judgment. For example, if a man decided he wanted to become a chef and practice a lot of self-care, he could be chastised by his family and friends for being too "feminine." This example is not an overarching generalization but a reality in some if not most, parts of the world. 

Another example could be a woman deciding not to be a mother or pursue her career to settle down later in her thirties. In some communities, she would be discouraged because finding a spouse at that age would be hard. Some might even state a woman's pride is in having children and caring for her husband. Though these statements might be the realities of those expressing them, it prevents the lady from the autonomy she needs to create the life she would be happy living. To conclude, despite our progress in promoting gender equality, gender equity, and feminism, awareness needs to be made of the importance of letting individuals create and live a life that makes them happy and fulfilled. We must create an atmosphere that allows people the freedom to be themselves. While creating this atmosphere, we must remember the realities of our day so as not to be caught unawares. 

Some fundamental questions 

1) Is the world made to accept every individual if they live in the fullness of their being? 

2) Do you consciously chastise men or women for being "feminine" and women for being "masculine"?

3) Do you believe that because men are nurturing, caring, understanding, and good communicators, they lose their ability to be assertive leaders and physical strength to protect their families? 

4) Do you believe that women who are breadwinners, assertive, independent, and leaders in their communities lose their ability to be nurturing, caring, understanding, and good communicators?