Human rights are always being talked about, but I’ve realized that in today’s world, these rights are not being applied to everyone. Woman face so many challenges that impact their health and wellbeing. Issues like violence, mental and maternal health are a few of the challenge’s women face. Dr. David Allen’s interview, referenced below, stood out to me the most because it talked about feminism. Many people have the misconception that feminism revolves around women empowerment and having women power over men, but this is wrong. We cannot separate health and well-being of women from the health and well-being of men because both are equally important for a healthy community. Some tips that Dr. Allen mentioned that I believe everyone should be aware of are advocating for more education for women. If more women are educated, then we can become more knowledgeable about our access to healthcare or preventative care. He also mentioned that men can play a large role in the well-being of women. I feel at times that men are insecure about their masculinity. We need to see masculinity that empowers and supports women instead of that toxic masculinity that can be of harm.
On the topic of masculinity, Liz Plank’s article “Men’s Health is Better too, with Countries that Have More Gender Equality” talked about how gender equality can influence male well-being with factors like mental health, fertility, and suicide. In some cases, men are heavily depended on working and providing financial support to his family, which can cause a lot of stress or anxiety. When women have more access to education and are catered to just like men, it can cause a positive effect on that community. Plank mentions “Data shows that gender equality may dampen rates of male suicide, because women's empowerment may protect men from economic shocks. If women are educated and can work, it lessens the financial responsibility that rests on men's shoulders.” We have made progress in how humans are being treated around the world but there is still a lot that needs to be done in order to reach gender equality and equal rights for everyone around the world.
References:
Dr. David Allen: Interview for BHS 420 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2j_MCYknSqQ
Plank, L. (2019). Men’s Health is Better too, with Countries that Have More Gender Equality. https://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/life-and-relationships/men-s-health-is-better-too-in-countries-with-more-gender-equality-20190924-p52ulc.html
By: Janely Gonzalez