The "Not All Men" phrase has become a common refrain in conversations about violence and abuse. While it may seem well-intentioned, this phrase often falls short when men are called out by their peers for abusive behaviour. It's time to rethink this phrase and hold men accountable for their actions. The rise of toxic masculinity in modern media and the lack of responsibility from influencers to promote positive change are also major concerns.
The "Not All Men" phrase is problematic when it comes to scenarios like rape cases. While it's true that not all men are perpetrators, the phrase can be used as a cop-out to avoid taking responsibility. In a society where men often view themselves as superior to women, is it any surprise that violence and abuse are rampant? The phrase "Not All Men" can also be used to justify abusive behaviour by men who claim they're "just kidding" or that their actions are just "normal" male behaviour.
Influencers have a significant role to play in promoting positive change. They can use their platforms to educate their followers on topics like consent, respect, and empathy. However, many influencers choose to promote toxic masculinity instead, perpetuating harmful attitudes towards women and marginalised communities. Society also bears some responsibility for creating a culture that normalises violence and abuse. By holding individuals accountable for their actions, we can create a more just and equitable society.
When men commit atrocities, it's not enough to simply blame others or make excuses. They must take responsibility for their actions and acknowledge the harm they've caused. Similarly, when men are victims of violence, they must be supported and believed without being shamed or blamed. We need to create a culture where men feel comfortable speaking out against abuse and supporting each other without fear of ridicule or backlash.
The "Not All Men" phrase has become a tired cliché that fails to address the root causes of violence and abuse. It's time to move beyond empty slogans and hold men accountable for their actions. We must promote positive change through education, awareness, and empathy. By doing so, we can create a society where all individuals are valued and respected, regardless of gender or background.
What if we turned the tables? What if men were burned on wives' pyres or forced to perform Jauhar to save their dignity? What if they were beaten to death for being perceived as too masculine? These hypothetical scenarios highlight the absurdity of our societal norms and the need for a radical shift in our attitudes toward gender equality and respect.
(The writer is a Queer activist based in Assam. With a passion for exploring topics like sex, gender, intimacy, and pleasure, he believes in driving change through writing. He holds a Master's degree in History from Gauhati University)
