“For it is not her specific feminine virtue that gives her a place of honor in human society; but the worth of the useful mission accomplished by her, the worth of her personality as human being, as citizen, as thinker, as fighter. Subconsciously this motive was the leading force of my whole life and activity. To go my way, to work, to struggle, to create side by side with men. – Alexandra Kollontai”
In the intricate tapestry of human existence, politics transcends the conventional realms of electoral power struggles. While commonly perceived as the governance of a nation, politics extends its influence to shape the very fabric of our lives. To comprehend this intricate web, especially for the oppressed, political awareness becomes imperative.
Delving into history, as R. Balakrishnan eloquently states, “The past passes us by, again and again.” The answers to our present challenges lie within the annals of history, encapsulating His-Story, Her-Story, and Their-Story.
Understanding the economic, social, political, and environmental dimensions of our past equips us with the knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of our present reality.
Political awareness enables us to decipher the narratives of leaders who fought for us, drawing parallels between past struggles and current challenges. Armed with historical insights, we can engage in logical, empathetic discourse, instigating a formidable stance against oppressive forces.
For those who question the relevance of political discourse, it is essential to recognize that politics is omnipresent. It infiltrates the taxes we pay, the freedom to voice dissent and even our daily consumption choices. Politics dictates whether we can express our opinions on social media without repercussions, reflecting its pervasive influence on our lives.
“Women belong in all places where decisions are being made… It shouldn’t be that women are the exception” said Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
To remain oblivious to these intricacies is a luxury afforded by privilege. Politics is not a mere abstraction; it manifests in the very air we breathe, affecting every aspect of our daily existence. Until we acknowledge this reality, we risk compromising the future for generations.
The consequences of political indifference are already evident in the current shift towards extended working hours, the prevalence of contract labor, lower wages, and the privatization of essential services. Discrimination based on gender, caste, and class remains a political battleground, perpetuating societal imbalances.
In “The Origin of the Family, Private Property, and the State,” Fredrick Engels highlights that the earliest form of discrimination was gender-based. Today, women’s bodies continue to be central to political narratives, whether through exploitation, marriage markets, or the perpetuation of caste structures.
The disturbing statistics of sexual assault cases, particularly against Dalit women, underscore the intersectionality of oppression and politics. The alarming increase in reported crimes emphasizes the urgent need for political awareness to dismantle deeply ingrained power structures.
In essence, the birth and existence of women are political acts. From electoral politics to cultural and religious practices, women remain at the epicentre, either shaping or bearing the brunt of political machinations. Movies like “The Great Indian Kitchen” and “Ayali” offer a glimpse into the everyday struggles of women, reflecting the stark reality that women live without needing cinematic portrayals.
Women should be politically aware of their surroundings in various contexts, including family, society, workplaces, and the political sphere, for several compelling reasons:
Informed Decision-Making
Political awareness equips women with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their lives. This includes choices related to family matters, personal relationships, career paths, and participation in societal issues.
Empowerment in Family Dynamics
Political awareness enables women to recognize and challenge traditional power structures within families. Understanding political dynamics helps women navigate and negotiate roles, responsibilities, and expectations, fostering a more equitable family environment.
Advocacy for Women’s Rights
Political awareness empowers women to advocate for their rights within societal structures. It provides the tools to identify and address issues such as gender-based discrimination, violence against women, and unequal opportunities, fostering a more just and inclusive society.
Career Advancement and Workplace Equity
In the workplace, political awareness allows women to navigate organizational dynamics, advocate for equal opportunities, and challenge discriminatory practices. It plays a crucial role in dismantling gender biases and promoting workplace equity.
Active Participation in Politics
Women’s political awareness is vital for active participation in the political process. By staying informed about policies, legislation, and political developments, women can contribute to shaping the laws and regulations that impact their lives and communities.
Addressing Societal Issues
Political awareness enables women to engage in societal issues, such as education, healthcare, and social justice. By understanding the political landscape, women can actively participate in discussions, advocate for change, and contribute to building a more inclusive and compassionate society.
Challenging Stereotypes and Norms
Awareness of political and social structures allows women to challenge stereotypes and norms that limit their opportunities. It provides a foundation for questioning societal expectations and advocating for broader acceptance of diverse roles and identities.
Building Solidarity
Political awareness fosters a sense of solidarity among women. By understanding common challenges and shared goals, women can unite to address issues collectively, creating a more supportive and empowered community.
Shaping the Future
Women’s political awareness is crucial for shaping the future. By actively participating in political processes, women contribute to creating policies that reflect diverse perspectives, promote equality, and address the evolving needs of society.
Resilience Against Oppression
Political awareness provides women with the tools to recognize and resist oppressive systems. Whether within the family, workplace, or broader society, awareness enables women to stand against injustice and work towards creating a more equitable and compassionate world.
In essence, political awareness empowers women to navigate complex societal structures, advocate for their rights, and contribute to positive societal change. It is a catalyst for personal and collective empowerment, fostering a more inclusive and just society for all.
In conclusion, political awareness is not a superfluous indulgence but an essential tool for navigating the complexities of our interconnected world. As we unveil the threads of politics woven into the very fabric of our lives, we empower ourselves to challenge oppressive forces and strive for a more equitable future.
“If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair”- Shirley Chisholm.
About the author
Kavitha Pandian
Kavitha Pandian is working in an IT company in the USA as a practice manager. She runs many initiatives including the Save Tamilnadu Farmer, Our Village Our Responsibility, and Adopt a Village and extends financial support and scholarship to underprivileged children for education, and betterment of rural life and has supported the people of Tamil Nadu during major natural disasters including Gaja and Covid. She has received many awards including ‘The Women Achievers Award’ by FeTNA, USA, in 2022. She also was felicitated by the District Collector, Virudhunagar during the 75th Independence Day celebrations, 2022, for her work towards infrastructure.
