Challenging Misogyny

What is misogyny

According to the Oxford Dictionary, it is a dislike or ingrained prejudice against women.

Counting Dead Women Australia reported 56 women have been murdered in Australia as at 27 November 2023. Their deaths were related to domestic violence or gender-based violence. The figures are shocking and represent more than one women being murdered per week.

Photo: Zonta Caboolture orange figures representing the impact of domestic violence on families, including pets.

Systemic changes

To make long-term, systemic changes around the world everyone must be willing to influence behaviour change, and this can be achieved through small but connected efforts. Everyone must influence their inner circle to respect women's rights before they try to influence total strangers.

Men can become part of the solution through mentoring younger boys to respect women's rights and challenge misogyny and discrimination in all its settings at work, in sport, recreation and the home life.

Young people also have a role to play in sharing knowledge on gender equality with their peers in their communities and social media circles. We must harness the power of numbers and offer alternate views on the role of women in our society.

Photo: Zonta Says No banner erected during the 16 Days of Activism at Caboolture.

During the 16 Days of Activism, Zonta is raising awareness of issues relating to gender-based violence. Learn more about these issues by reading our previous 16 Days of Activism blog articles.

Day 1: What is the 16 Days of Activism
Day 2: Why doesn't she just leave him?
Day 3: Climate Justice
Day 4: How digitisation is creating more problems?
Day 5: Supporting Survivors
Day 6: Bystander Action
Day 7: Calling on Men and Boys