Workshop on Gender Awareness

A transformative workshop on gender awareness, organized by Mukti under the Voice initiative, took place at the Mahammed Bazar Backward Classes Development Society (MBBCDS) in Sainthia. The workshop, aimed at educating and engaging the local community on gender issues, saw active participation from various members, especially women, of the society.
The session commenced on the 19th of March, with an enlightening presentation by Mr. Partha Dey, a social worker and expert in gender issues. His insightful talk focused on the importance of addressing gender disparities within communities and the societal impact of these differences.

A key highlight of the evening was the personal account shared by Ms. Ayesha, the founder member of MBBCDS, who recounted the challenges and perseverance involved in establishing a women-led organization. She emphasized how the organization’s inception, built on years of struggle, continues to empower women in the region by providing them with a platform to voice their concerns and improve their livelihoods.

Ms. Ayesha’s experience resonated deeply with the attendees, inspiring them to reflect on their own journeys toward social empowerment.

The second day of the workshop on the 20th of March opened with thought-provoking discussions on societal perceptions of gender. Participants, particularly local women, shared their unique experiences, discussing how they incorporate the art of Kantha stitch into the design of traditional clothes—a skill passed down through generations. This exchange highlighted the cultural significance of women’s work and their contribution to preserving local traditions.

The session then delved into interactive group activities, where participants were divided into three groups, each representing different societal spheres: Individual, Family, and Nation. Each group was tasked with discussing and illustrating the various forms of gender discrimination encountered within these domains. Using chart paper, participants shared their thoughts on how gender biases manifest in everyday life, through both direct and subtle actions.

Key questions posed to the groups included:

• “How do we see women?”
• “How do we see men?”
• “How should we view human beings, beyond gender?”

Through these exercises, participants gained a deeper understanding of the pervasive nature of gender discrimination, realizing how societal norms shape perceptions of both men and women.
A significant portion of the workshop focused on the often overlooked aspect of language and its role in perpetuating gender inequality. Mr. Partha Dey highlighted how commonly used, women-centric slangs can often carry implicit sexual connotations, further reinforcing harmful stereotypes. This discussion prompted the attendees to reflect on how language, both spoken and unspoken, can shape the way society views women and men.

The workshop closed with a strong call to action: the need for continuous efforts to challenge and change societal norms that perpetuate gender discrimination. By fostering an environment where open dialogue and mutual respect are prioritized, Mukti’s initiative is making significant strides towards building a more inclusive and gender-just society.

 

Gallery link: https://muktiweb.org/gallery/album/workshop-on-gender-awareness-at-mahammed-bazar-backward-classes-development-society-mbbcds-in-sainthia