Young men and women around the world have long been thrust into predetermined roles handed down to them by previous generations. It’s an unfortunate reality, but in communities struggling with poverty, girls are commonly expected to focus their attention on helping with chores and raising their siblings instead of pursuing an education. They were, and still are, pressured into early marriage to alleviate the economic “burden” on their households, which further limits their opportunities and increases their chances of having more children, thus repeating the cycle of poverty.
Boys, too, face gender rules that influence their fate. Those who grow up in disadvantaged neighborhoods are often expected to prove their masculinity by joining a gang, drinking heavily or doing drugs, or taking on grueling manual labor. As a result, they may adopt abusive behavior to maintain their “virile” image. There’s not much leeway for anything else.
Young men and women deserve more than that. They deserve the chance to pursue a better life, despite the roles they’ve been assigned by society, history and culture. We believe equality is essential to breaking the cycle of poverty.
“ We believe equality is essential to breaking the cycle of poverty.”In this issue, we’ll examine the ways gender is defined and perceived in the areas we serve and explore the ways our unique approach is creating equal opportunities for boys and girls alike. The children and youth in these pages are proving that they can do whatever they set their minds to. They can be who they want to be – and not what they’re told to be.
Sincerely,
Jim Cook
President
Splitting the Difference: Women in the Jorasanko neighborhood of Kolkata, India, make kindling for their cookstoves – a chore they have performed for centuries. CI programs are helping change gender norms like this so boys and girls have an equal role in society.
