Gender (In)Equality: What About the Boys?

self insemination kit

Recently, I came across an inspiring story about two mothers who, frustrated by the limited options in girls’ clothing, launched a clothing line showcasing prints like rockets, trains, and dinosaurs—designs typically reserved for the boys’ section. This sparked a thought in my mind.

While I wholeheartedly applaud the concept of girls embracing “boy” designs, I couldn’t help but wonder about the other side of the coin. What about the boys who wish for clothing with traditional “girl” designs? What about the boys who want to dress as Elsa for Halloween rather than Olaf?

What about the boys?

As a woman, I feel compelled to advocate for women’s rights and gender equality—something I believe in deeply. I want the same opportunities as men, and I desire to be assessed based on my abilities and character, not my gender. I want this for my three daughters as well.

However, I find myself questioning why we celebrate girls wanting to be superheroes, astronauts, and scientists while largely neglecting boys’ desires to express themselves freely. Girls can pursue any interest, but boys often face scrutiny when they deviate from traditional gender norms.

Consider this: If one of my daughters prefers wearing pants over dresses, or chooses sports over dance, no one bats an eye. Her achievements—be it in athletics or academics—are celebrated. She can run around, get dirty, and play outside without anyone suggesting she should conform to “girly” interests. My social media feeds would fill with supportive comments, but you won’t see anyone questioning my choices or suggesting I push her towards more feminine pursuits.

Now, flip this scenario around. My adorable 5-year-old son wanted to be Elsa for Halloween. While he loved the costume we pieced together, we faced challenges finding a “Boy Elsa” option in stores. Even at preschool, I hesitated to let him wear a dress due to potential teasing from classmates.

He also adores My Little Pony, yet I’ve never found a t-shirt featuring his favorite characters for him. Meanwhile, I can easily buy superhero shirts for my daughters, even from the boys’ section, without worrying that they will be deemed inappropriate. Girls’ clothing tends to be dominated by ruffles, pastel colors, and bows, making it a challenge to find something that suits my son’s interests.

This puts me in a tough spot as a parent. Yes, buying him that “girl” shirt might make him happy, but what happens when he wears it to school and faces negative comments from peers? I want to nurture his individuality while also shielding him from potential hurtful remarks. Cruel comments can deeply affect a child’s self-esteem, and I wish to protect my son from that pain by being mindful of his clothing choices.

So, why isn’t this discussion more prevalent in conversations about gender inequality? Why do we focus primarily on empowering girls while overlooking the needs and feelings of boys?

I’ve encountered well-meaning friends and family who suggest I steer my son towards more “masculine” interests. Comments like, “Don’t you think you should encourage other interests?” or “He’s going to be gay if you let him do that,” are frustrating. Should I really dictate what he should enjoy based on societal norms? No. I care about his happiness above all.

Let’s shift the narrative and challenge the stereotypes that dictate what boys can like. We need to advocate for acceptance and understanding for all children, regardless of gender. This mama is ready for that change.

For more insights on parenting and gender discussions, check out this resource on the topic of gender equality.

Summary:

This piece highlights the importance of recognizing the needs of boys in the dialogue surrounding gender equality. While empowering girls is crucial, it’s equally vital to support boys who wish to express themselves outside the traditional norms. The author shares personal anecdotes that illustrate the challenges boys face and emphasizes the need for a more inclusive approach to gender expression.