Maybe a slight over-simplification, but the past few days have reaffirmed the fact that, although there has been progress in a variety of arenas, and much is stated publicly regarding the need for awareness, equality, understanding; this world is fundamentally still misogynistic by nature.
The latest public demonstration has been the, thankfully reversed, banning of the burkini on some French beaches. Now, I understand the trauma that France is suffering in the aftermath of a number of recent horrific attacks by despicable psychopaths in the name of nothing to do with Islam. And I understand that there is an urge, even a need, to retaliate. But this one made no sense. At all.
Firstly, the burqa was banned in France 6 years ago, and has changed nothing as far as terrorist activity. And with the recent ban, short-lived as it was, yet again focuses the reaction, revenge, restriction, on women.
I am no expert, but I assume that the burqa, and all the other variances of ‘modest’ dress within the Islamic community, were originally instigated by men. However, I can also understand why many women may take it as a style of choice, especially in a world where the female body is extensively and extremely objectified.
The bottom line is that it is, and should always be, a choice. Both in secular societies, and in those where the societal rules are governed by a state’s religion, allowing for a respect for the rules. It is difficult, but respect for all sides is the only way that progress, understanding and acceptance will emerge.
However, the knee-jerk reaction, and targeting of women, moved me to a more insidious, quietly destructive and wide-spread phenomenon. I am consciously aware of two women who have suffered both mental and physical cruelty within outwardly happy relationships. I say I am consciously aware as I must accept that there are significantly more cruel and inhuman situations within outwardly normal couples.
The scars may only be internal, but they are deep, severe and of a long duration. They delineate and prescribe the relationships and responses to the rest of the world, and will govern, to a greater or lesser extent, the remainder of their lives.
Derided over the years for being parochial and irrelevant, although not by me, ‘The Archers’, a simple tale of country folk?, has taken up the cause of this sociopathic cruelty, and shone a light where society has tried for too long not to look.
I have seen, and continue to see, the harm this cruelty can cause, and the ongoing pain. And, because i care about these women, It hurts me too.
But, until there is an acceptance across the whole of society of such a deep rooted and destructive problem, then All Men Will Remain Bastards.
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