Understanding significance of gender equity emphasis to make a shift towards inclusive society: The 3-E mantra
Of late, the gender dimension of education, development and inclusive society has come to the centre-stage with emphasis on equality, equity, inclusion in modern times. But unfortunately, gender is a concept that is widely and wrongfully used and perceived in many quarters to mean 'women’s issues' and 'role reversal'.
It is needed to be understood that the term 'gender' refers to the socio-cultural classification of women and men based on societal norms and values that define the roles they should play in society. The socio-cultural assigned roles are the result of male dominance in society and over-valuing of masculinity in relations in the social life and the work life across the existent gender spectrum. The situation has given rise to sex-stereotyping, sexism, objectification of women, gender discrimination, gender disparity in all educational, developmental and work opportunities.
Keeping the foregoing in view, social scientists are talking about a shift towards gender equity, inclusion and enabling gender-neutral work and social environment. Here is the 3-E mantra of gender equity.
Three Es of gender equity
E1: Elimination of sex-stereotyping and sexism from social environment and communication by following the principles of positive psychology
E2: Ending all forms of gender discriminations and barriers so that all are provided equal access, parity, opportunity, sharing of powers, participation and benefits
E3: Enabling environment for each individual without gender discrimination for accommodation and inclusion towards self-actualization in an endeavor or activity
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