In the pursuit of fostering a more equitable society, I’ve often been told that I sometimes go to extremes. For instance, getting up from my cozy spot on the couch—especially in the chilly confines of Wisconsin—means I must forgo the comforting quilt draped over me. I’ll cross the room and, without uttering a word, grab the remote to change the channel whenever a commercial demeaning women airs. In our household, such content is simply unacceptable.
When magazines arrive at our doorstep, my three sons are aware that I sift through them first, scrutinizing the pages for any inappropriate depictions of women. Quite often, the magazine is left with only half its content intact after I’m done. We won’t tolerate it in our home.
Similarly, during car rides, if suggestive lyrics about women come on the radio, I swiftly turn the dial as if attempting to eject it from the vehicle altogether. Passive acceptance of such messages is not an option for us.
My children have grown accustomed to my proactive approach; I have been vocal about my actions since they were young. This is my method of illustrating what is acceptable and what is not when it comes to the portrayal of women in our culture. Society often tries to dictate what is normal, stating, “This is how it is; you can’t change it.” Yet, the news frequently overlooks the prevalence of toxic attitudes surrounding gender.
While I can’t control the societal narratives or the violent imagery against women that permeate media, I can take a stand through my actions. I firmly believe that children are more influenced by what they observe than by what they hear. Thus, I will persist in my efforts.
Do I expect to shield my sons completely from the outside world, especially as two of them prepare to head to college in the next couple of years? I know that’s impossible. They have been exposed to the same media messages as I have. However, I am their first role model, and they observe my reactions closely. Therefore, I will continue my personal revolution within our household.
A revolution is necessary—one that challenges cultural norms regarding the respect and treatment of women. Despite being told that my efforts are insignificant, I will continue to push the boundaries. One day, as my children navigate a world without me, the memory of my actions will resonate within them, like the snap of a rubber band, reminding them of my stance against the objectification of women.
Society may insist that my children accept the way women are portrayed, reinforcing the idea that change is impossible. Yet, in my small but significant way, I will instill in my boys the belief that it is entirely possible to say, “No. We do not have to accept this.”
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In summary, through my actions, I am determined to raise my sons with a consciousness that challenges societal norms regarding women. Together, we can foster a generation that resists passive acceptance and promotes equality.