There’s an unsettling trend in society’s discourse on gender: it’s often painted as a women-only issue. Gender inequality, gender discrimination, gender violence—these phrases have somehow become synonymous with women alone. But is it so? In a communication workshop recently, the facilitator shared an anecdote that brilliantly highlights this skewed perception. According to him, people are more likely to believe what they hear about gender issues when it’s being taught by a woman. Think about that for a second. The messenger—her gender—seemingly validates the message. Why? Because society has boxed gender as a women’s narrative, marginalizing men from the conversation altogether.
In a classroom full of inquisitive minds, this revelation hit hard. How many times have we unconsciously perpetuated this bias? Gender is a complex and fluid interplay of societal constructs, expectations, and lived experiences that affect everyone. Yet, when we slap it with a “women’s issue” label, we ignore half the population and the critical role men play in dismantling these constructs.
Gender issues affect men in ways we often overlook. Toxic masculinity, for instance, pressures men into unrealistic roles, forcing them to suppress emotions, take on harmful behaviors, and live up to a rigid ideal of “manliness.” Men can also be victims of gender-based violence, face discrimination in custody battles, and struggle with societal expectations that refuse to acknowledge their vulnerabilities.
By viewing gender through a singular lens, we miss the opportunity to address these challenges. Instead of creating a holistic conversation, we risk polarizing the discourse, making it harder for men to engage, empathize, or even care.
This imbalance was on full display when the Gender Minister recently made a controversial remark during her vetting. She announced that the proposed Women’s Bank, an initiative by the Mahama administration, would be staffed entirely by women. On the surface, this sounds empowering—a financial institution run by women, for women. But is this empowerment or exclusion?
One can argue that creating opportunities for women in finance is vital, given their historic underrepresentation. However, staffing the bank exclusively with women inadvertently sends a divisive message. It implies that gender empowerment is a zero-sum game: in order to uplift women, men must be excluded. In reality, gender equity should involve collaboration, not isolation.
Such policies, though well-intentioned, reinforce the misconception that gender progress is a one-sided battle. They alienate men who might otherwise support these initiatives and further entrench the idea that gender issues belong in a women-only domain.
To truly address gender inequality, we need a shift in mindset.
Gender is not synonymous with women. Men’s issues, struggles, and contributions must be part of the conversation.
The facilitator’s example of bias in teaching gender proves we need to challenge stereotypes early. Gender education should be taught as a human issue, regardless of the educator’s gender.
Initiatives like the Women’s Bank should prioritize inclusion. Imagine the powerful statement it would make to have women and men working together to achieve financial equity.
Both men and women need to confront internalized stereotypes that limit progress. Gender equity isn’t about blame; it’s about shared responsibility.
Attributing gender issues solely to women undermines the very essence of equity. It’s like trying to row a boat with one oar—you’ll go in circles but never make meaningful progress. The sooner we recognize that gender issues affect everyone, the faster we can dismantle the structures that uphold inequality.
So, let’s stop assigning ownership of gender to one group. Let’s widen the scope, broaden the narrative, and build a society where both men and women actively shape the conversation. After all, gender isn’t a one-way street—it’s a journey we all take together.
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Mr. Twum Barima holds an MPhil in Risk Management & Insurance from the University of Ghana Business School, a BSc in Chemical Engineering from KNUST, and an LLB from the University of Ghana, further reinforcing his capacity to lead SIC Life effectively.
