Gender Activism & Taking Collective Action
Theme: We are champions of gender equality.
The boys will understand the need for caring for girls and translating that caring into gender activism.
Definitions
Gender activism, any action planned and taken with the intention of changing negative social norms; about making changes in how girls and boys are treated in a school, community, city, country, or the world.
Activist, anyone fighting for change in society. Gender activists find ways to end injustices against girls and boys to create strong communities encouraging economic, social and psychological health.
Examples of gender activism at school
Forming gender activism clubs.
Organising school debates on gender issues.
Community-based theatre performances on gender issues.
Teaching peers how to make reusable sanitary pads.
Helping girls with cleaning at school.
Making and showcasing art that portrays gender equality.
Making skits or poems about the importance of gender equality.
Reporting gender-based violence when you see it.
As a Boy Champion, you are also a gender activist and leader in the fight for gender equality. You have an important role to play, never forget that!
Activity, Coming up with a campaign
a) Brainstorm the main issue: what are the biggest issues girls face in your schools, homes and communities? What would you want to change? Vote on one cause the class agrees on.
b) Plan campaign activities: how do you effect and carry out this change? What activities are most engaging and fun? Each Boy Champions class organises at least 1 school-based campaign, music, dance, debate, guest speakers, or drama during assembly or class.
c) Draw an Action Plan: Issue → Action to be taken → Activities → Resources required → Tasks for each person.
d) Reflect: 3 to 5 participants share what they learned before you read the key messages.
In addition, boys work alongside the Adolescent Girls Program to organise a 1-day campaign for the International Day of the Girl Child (IDG) on October 11th.
- Anyone can be a gender activist, boy or girl.
- As a Boy Champion, be aware of the issues girls face in your schools and communities, then take action.
- Proper planning leads to a successful campaign.
- When you stand up for gender equality, you become a respected and responsible leader.