As the United States moves further forward in its gladiatorial display of hegemonic masculinity in its search for a new President, it is clearly evident that the observation that ‘men have palaeolithic bodies, neolithic brains, medieval institutions and modern problems,’ has reached it’s most clearly articulated expression in the current Republican contenders.

To say that there is a “War on Women’ is an understatement of immense proportions. The Republican men that are running for the honour and privilege of leading a nation of men AND women are displaying behaviours that make it clear that they have no real regard for fifty percent of the population as real equals.

Now, before you think that I’m just aiming a shot at the conservatives in the world, let me set you straight. This is about ANY man who harbours beliefs or presents arguments against the encompassing equality of the genders.
What are they?

  1. Reproductive rights
  2. Violence against women and children
  3. Financial assistance & access to resources to those in need
  4. Equal work means Equal pay
  5. Restricted access to leadership roles based on gender
  6. Restriction to equitable arrangements for family care

What do we do about it?

I listened to the maiden speech of Mhairi Black, the youngest elected Scottish MP. In it she quoted Tony Benn, who once said that in politics there are weathercocks and sign posts. Weathercocks will spin in whatever direction the wind of public opinion may blow them, no matter what principal they may have to compromise. And then there are signposts, signposts which stand true, and tall, and principled. And they point in the direction and they say this is the way to a better society and it is my job to convince you why.’

Leadership is NOT leadership when it can disenfranchise fifty percent of the population. The signposts are clear. They are principles of inclusion, equality, distribution and co-operation. As a society we need to abandon the weather cocks of what ever religious, social, economic and political persuasion and look and keep to the signposts.

So, my answer to the question should gender be on the agenda is that as long as there is inequality in the activity of men and women, we need Gender to stay on the Agenda.

As Edward Burke pointed out: “When bad men combine, the good must associate.” and I would like to add, ‘The great will make it happen.’

Working with Gunter

 
If evolving as a man interests you Gunter runs programs to help you thrive personally, in your relationships and as a leader. To set up an exploratory conversation, contact Rebecca via rebecca@goodmengreat.com