Empowering Women: Asserting Boundaries in Public Spaces
In the world of today, the importance of women standing up to men in public settings and maintaining firm boundaries cannot be overstated. We often get labeled as ‘bitch’ when we stand up to men or challenge their behaviours. However, we need to speak up and perhaps with education and training, people can transform their behaviours. This practice is not about creating divisions but rather about fostering an environment of mutual respect, equality, and personal safety. By speaking out and setting clear boundaries in public interactions, women play a crucial role in reshaping societal norms and ensuring a more inclusive and secure future for all. It has been my experience to remain silent I am part of the problem. I always encourage that if you are choosing to speak up make sure you are safe.
1. Fostering Mutual Respect
Not everyone knows how to be respectful of women. Especially if as children they did not witness respect in the home. Asserting boundaries in public settings is a fundamental step toward fostering mutual respect between genders. When women assert themselves and communicate their expectations for respectful language and behavior, they contribute to the creation of an environment where everyone is treated with dignity. Over the years dealing with workplace sexual harassment and bullying it was obvious that the men, my co-workers did not respect or value me as an equal. Over time the workplace became a polarized toxic workplace because the leadership/management/commander failed to address the misogyny. Breaking this unseen barrier was a real challenge and equally important with the goal of encouraging respectful interactions among all individuals, regardless of their gender. This did not happen.
2. Promoting Gender Equality
It is scary to speak up in a public setting and important not only for youself but those who remain silent because of fear.Standing up to men in public spaces is an essential aspect of promoting gender equality. It sends a powerful message that women are equal partners in society and deserve the same level of respect, consideration, and opportunities as men. By refusing to accept unequal treatment or behavior that disrespects their boundaries, women pave the way for a more equitable future.
3. Creating Safe Public Spaces
Firmly maintaining boundaries also contributes to creating safe public spaces for everyone. When women are confident in asserting their boundaries, it becomes less likely for inappropriate behavior, harassment, or misconduct to go unaddressed. This, in turn, leads to safer environments where individuals can engage in public activities without fear. Took me a few years to figure this out and how to share my voice at the same time being respectful in my own boundaries.
4. Empowering the Individual
Setting and enforcing boundaries is an act of self-empowerment. It teaches women that their needs and comfort matter and that they have the agency to determine how they want to be treated. It is never easy that first time saying ‘no’ or setting your boundaries on behaviours you will not accept any more at home, with family and friends, in public spaces, and in the workplace. This empowerment extends beyond public spaces and permeates various aspects of life, enabling women to make informed choices and stand up for their rights.
5. Challenging Harmful Norms
Breaking out of the ‘girls have to always be nice’ crap is incredibly important in finding your own voice. When women stand up to men in public settings, they challenge harmful societal norms that perpetuate gender inequalities. By refusing to accept disrespectful language or physical encroachments, women help break down these norms and encourage others to do the same. Over time, this can lead to a cultural shift toward more respectful and equitable behavior. Recently I was at an event where a man thought it was okay to place his hand on my lower hip as we stood for photos. I was immediately feeling uncomfortable and quickly took his hand and moved up to my mid-back not saying a word, he was clearly embarrassed, which was not my problem but his. Remember put the responsibility back on the people who have been disrespectful or crossed your boundaries. Silence was effective and so was moving his hand, as I felt violated. Everyone is different some may comment and dismiss my feelings, again stick to your voice and how to keep yourself safe.
6. Setting Positive Examples
I feel honoured to be a role model for women in sharing the lessons of speaking up in public settings. After 20 years of workplace bullying, there are many lessons learned. It was not an easy or happy journey. Women who assert their boundaries in public spaces serve as role models for others, especially younger generations. They inspire others to do the same and demonstrate that it is not only acceptable but necessary to demand respect and maintain personal boundaries. These positive examples help shape a future where everyone understands the importance of boundaries and respects them. Young girls need to know that their voice counts in all places and to value themselves.
7. Contributing to Social Change
Changing attitudes and patterns of behaviour is never easy. It takes awareness and a conscious effort. Collectively, the practice of women standing up to men in public settings has the potential to contribute to broader social change. It challenges deeply ingrained beliefs and practices, encouraging individuals and institutions to reevaluate their behaviors and policies. This can lead to more gender-inclusive policies, laws, and societal attitudes. The more people see women standing up and demanding to be treated with respect the more the seeds of change are being planted in each of us, all of us can be part of keeping women safe.
The importance of women standing up to men in public settings and having firm boundaries on language and physical presence cannot be overstated. For women ‘no means no’ and men need to listen to how their words and behaviours are insulting and dangerous. Silence is not a ‘yes’ or acceptance.
It is a powerful step towards building a society where respect, equality, and safety are non-negotiable principles. By taking these actions, women not only empower themselves but also contribute to positive change on a societal level, creating a better future for all.
Taking the lessons from the trauma of years of workplace bullying and abuse are powerful tools to share with others so that you do not have to suffer. It is a choice and takes practice. Once you find your voice you are going to guard it and protect it for the rest of your life.
Find your voice and speak up for yourself and those who remain silent.