In Bangladesh, women’s rights and the idea of feminism are often treated with skepticism and disapproval. There is a clear lack of proper understanding of the term “feminism,” even among those who support women’s rights. Despite 53 years of independence and significant advancements in women’s education and society, outdated perceptions of feminism and women’s rights still persist. The concept of feminism is often misunderstood, even by educated individuals. Many people are aware of women’s rights and support feminist ideologies, but they are reluctant to identify as feminists themselves. For example, parents who ensure equal treatment for their children in terms of education and opportunities, mentors who significantly empower women, or well-meaning individuals who are free from the shackles of patriarchy often find it difficult to accept the term “feminism” and the label “feminist” on themselves. This reluctance often stems from a lack of awareness about what feminism truly represents and the backlash the label brings in our society.
When we encounter a Bangladeshi woman who is a proponent of feminism and vocal about her rights, people might mock and taunt, “Oh, she is the feminist type.” This phrase carries a condescending undertone, and someone labeled as “the feminist type” is often perceived as being difficult, irrational, westernized, and even a man-hater. These perceptions contribute to the growing presence of anti-feminist sentiments among people in society, affecting how Bangladeshi women are viewed.
Understanding the Roots of Anti-Feminist Sentiment
To deal with anti-feminist sentiments, it is crucial to identify their root causes and the factors that catalyze this behavior. Anti-feminist mentality is deeply rooted in misconceptions about feminism, cultural and religious norms, and the existing power dynamics in society.
In the patriarchal society of Bangladesh, men are usually the breadwinners and are seen as the head of the family and society. The belief that men are superior is deeply ingrained in the people of this society. Other factors such as early marriage, low literacy rates among women, and poverty exacerbate gender inequality and limit a Bangladeshi woman’s authority over her own life.
When women who are unaware of their rights become financially dependent on men, it restricts their decision-making power and perpetuates traditional gender roles. Women from marginalized communities are often more vulnerable to such discrimination and exploitation.
A significant part of society manipulates and interprets religion in ways that serve their own interests while disregarding other aspects. This acts as a justification for gender inequality and oppression against women. People also misinterpret religious texts, which contributes to restrictive gender roles and limits women’s rights.
The rise of fanatics has promoted conservative values and restrictions on women’s rights. Additionally, the underrepresentation of women in important societal roles, poor portrayal of women in media, and body shaming further strengthen existing stereotypes and increase objectification.
This undermines a Bangladeshi woman’s self-worth and fosters a culture hostile to feminist ideas.
Distinguishing Constructive Criticism from Anti-Feminism
It’s also critical to understand that not every criticism of feminism is anti-feminist. Listening to and considering constructive criticism can lead to positive change. However, when this criticism seeks to ignore women’s rights and puts them in danger of discrimination and abuse, it crosses the line into anti-feminist sentiments, which is when action becomes necessary.
Education and Awareness: The Keys to Change
One of the most effective ways to eradicate anti-feminist sentiments is through education and raising awareness. Contrary to what many people think, feminism isn’t misandry or female domination over men. Rather, it advocates for equal rights for both genders and disrupts the existing patriarchal structure in society that has shackled women and caused gender discrimination for years.
We need to educate ourselves on the history of feminism, gender inequality, women’s rights, and the prejudices that still persist in society. With this understanding, we can clear up misconceptions and educate others as well.
We can engage in respectful and open conversations with people who hold contrasting opinions and assist them in discarding stereotypes against women. Since education is a two-way process, it’s critical that we communicate our own opinions while also listening to and learning from others.
Another way to ingrain feminist ideals in society is by shaping the perspective of the new generation through a reformed education curriculum. We can integrate feminist principles, hold discussions on historical and contemporary feminist movements and figures, and include their stories in the curriculum. This way, the new generation can gain a deeper understanding of women’s rights and gender equality, and young women will have strong female figures to look up to. For instance, a Bangladeshi woman who is knowledgeable about these issues can pass on this information to future generations.
The Role of Media in Promoting Feminism
The media is another powerful tool for uniting people and promoting feminist views. We can use various media platforms, such as print publications, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and television commercials, to share the stories of strong female leaders who have overcome discrimination.
By promoting equal rights, opportunities, and treatment for all genders, we can emphasize the movement’s goals. Producing and selecting inspirational and educational content can help promote a more inclusive understanding of feminism and reach a broader audience.
Additionally, we can advocate for better representation of women in the media, highlighting women in leadership positions and their contributions to society. This will enable more Bangladeshi women to see role models who break free from patriarchal norms.
Addressing Gender-Based Violence and Legal Reforms
We must address gender-based violence and ensure its eradication from society. It is also essential to ensure that existing laws and policies do not strip women of their rights or deprive them of opportunities in any way. We must work towards changing policies or laws in a way that creates systemic shifts that benefit all women in Bangladesh. Legal reforms can help reduce anti-feminist sentiments by creating an environment where women’s rights are protected and enforced.
The Role of Generational Change
Due to access to information through different types of media and platforms, Gen Z is much more aware of existing feminist issues in society and is more vocal about them compared to Boomers (Gen X) and Millennials (Gen Y). As the next generation, Gen Alpha, grows up in a similar environment with access to all kinds of information, we can expect that they may potentially surpass Gen Z in their advocacy and awareness regarding gender-related issues. The voices of the younger generation can be a powerful force in combating anti-feminist sentiments in Bangladesh.
Engaging Men in the Feminist Movement
We cannot bring forth change by alienating half of our population. Men’s involvement in this movement is, therefore, very important. We can encourage open conversations with men about their roles in promoting gender equality and the benefits of eradicating patriarchy for everyone.
We can provide encouraging examples of male supporters who have significantly contributed to the empowerment of Bangladeshi women. By fostering a cooperative environment, a broader base of support for feminist movements can be developed. However, we also need to pick our battles carefully. When we encounter a misogynist or an ignorant person, we must consider whether engaging with them will actually change anything. We must assess whether they are willing to unlearn their existing biases, or else our efforts will be futile.
Self-Care in the Face of Anti-Feminist Sentiment
We might face people who are not willing to change their ideologies because they benefit from the existing patriarchy and do not want to change a society that already caters to their needs. Dealing with anti-feminist sentiments can be extremely stressful and emotionally taxing. However, we must never forget that it’s okay to step back and replenish our energy. Although social development is gradual and encounters opposition, history has shown that persistent efforts can result in significant improvements. Despite the obstacles created by anti-feminist sentiments, Bangladeshi women can continue their efforts to promote a fairer society by remaining dedicated to their cause. Although the path may be difficult, a more just and equal society is achievable with perseverance and unity.