World We Dare To Imagine
The provided quote from The Blue Sweater, by Jacqueline Novogratz suggests that people around the world are starting to take global issues into their own hands, and find solutions through changing their individual actions to make a difference. With that being said, there are many potential ways in which these actions can be encouraged and/or incentivised. Whilst there are many issues, we are encouraged by the comforting fact that the world has good people in it, who strive to have a positive impact to the world and the people who live in it. In this post, the topic of discussion will be my way of making the world a better place, when it comes to violence and rape.
Having three older sisters, I have always been aware of the difficulties faced by women. To think that rape still occurs, and the men who commit the crime get away with it, will constantly be a shock to me. The first step that I would make, if I was an elected government official, would be to impose a serious punishment to those who commit rape or acts of violence. I can imagine that it will drastically reduce the issue, because people may think twice if they know the punishment will be bad. A relative of mine lives in the Middle East, and she explained how serious punishments are to violent crimes and rape; she also mentioned that she has never felt safer than where she is now, and that everyone lives in harmony there. It is funny and ironic to see how she feels despite how barbaric the punishments are.
That being said, being a government official seems very far from reality. Everyday, I am reminded by the good in people (it is very clear in our own class), and I do my best to replicate this daily. Before an action, I always ask myself if it will negatively affect myself or another person, and if the answer is yes, the action never happens. Life is made up of choices, and if we do our very best to avoid choices that harm others, the world will move towards harmony. The question, is how do we maximise the choices that better people, and minimise the choices that do not.
It’s great to see someone so passionate about making substantial changes to create a safer world. It’s heartbreaking that issues like rape are still so prevalent, and your shock at how perpetrators often escape punishment is something many of us feel. I thin your suggestion about imposing serious penalties as a deterrent could be a strong move but I think that in reality it would be hard for it to get imposed in this country.
ReplyDeleteEven though becoming a government official isn't on the cards for everyone, the way you bring it back to personal responsibility and daily choices is inspiring. It’s a reminder that each of us has the power to influence the world in small but significant ways. Asking ourselves if our actions hurt someone else is a small and simple yet profound way to live more compassionately. Sadly some people just don't care to take others feelings into consideration, so we have problems in the world such as this. Thanks for sharing these thoughts. It’s a meaningful conversation to have, and you’ve definitely made me think about how we can all contribute to a safer and more harmonious world.
The issues of violence against women and rape are those that do not get enough attention in the United States. Aside from the fact that most women are afraid to walk outside alone, even places that are known for safety, schools, are war zones for women. For example, USC boasts themselves on their high security initiatives on campus -- however I have heard of several sexual assault cases that have been brushed under the carpet to preserve their prestigious image. Girls are being offered tuition and stipends to remain silent about their experiences.
ReplyDeleteI think this is very honest work to put forth into the world. Being an advocate for sexual assault and implementing official change is absolutely a way to address these types of issues. People may not think that laws change behavior but, I don't believe that to be true. At the very least, legislation helps. I think this is an attainable world we could live in if we try.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your insights. If being involved in government isn't in your vision, there's still a lot you can do to support women (including children) regarding sexual assault. Some actions include supporting certain movements and amplifying womens' voices as well as checking male colleagues on their behavior (actions and words, including "just joking").
ReplyDelete