Welcome to the fifth in our series of bi-weekly columns under the title “The Gender Corner,” published in collaboration with The Anguillian newspaper. Through this publication we hope to provide thought provoking and stimulating discussion on gender-related matters. This week we are taking a closer look at how we can improve gender relations in Anguilla by rethinking the roles and perceptions that we hold about males and females.
In Anguilla, we are a society with unique privileges. The ability for families to own land is similar to no place on this earth. In most cases, government or private industries own the majority of the country’s land. Women in Anguilla are calculated decision-makers, savvy investors and dedicated household managers. Men in Anguilla are committed educators of our youth, oftentimes through informal but powerful interactions through sports and mentorship. They are spirited builders and industrious minds. Our boys and girls are designed for greatness as we guide and mold them for diverse positions of prominence.
When we reflect on these truths, it is clear that men, women, girls and boys have no lack of fervor, ability and aptitude. However, we have to rethink the beliefs that we are taught about men’s and women’s roles in various areas of life. This includes such questions as: What are women and men capable of in the workplace? What are men and women expected to contribute to the home? What are both men and women adding to social interactions and cultural traditions? When we ask these questions and start a dialogue, we begin to grow in understanding of our own biases and have the opportunity to resolve them.
The attributes of unhealthy gender roles include getting stuck in the idea that masculinity and femininity are tied to our ability to follow prescribed roles and norms in our households, in the community and in the workplace. We are each given talents that are based on our purpose in life. Whether male or female, young or old, if we are still in the land of the living then there is positive work to be done.
As we move forward and think broadly about the future of gender affairs in Anguilla, we must take a renewed approach. Men must be politically active in the fight for women’s gains in fields such as technology and construction, which is often male dominated. Likewise, women must be socially instrumental in the process of providing opportunities for men to formally be in the teaching field and active in the care of our children and elderly; traditionally female dominated sectors.
By sharing your personal talents and gifts to effect positive change on a daily basis, the Gender Affairs Unit’s vision will be fulfilled. However, more importantly, our greatness as a society will be fulfilled. There are a multitude of social issues that we are facing and working toward resolving. We are an intelligent society with so much to offer to one another. Let us offer it fairly and equally, ensuring the opportunities to create a state of well-being for ourselves, our families, our communities and our nation.
