Violence Against Women

The documentary “Born into Brothels” was absolutely remarkable. I loved the fact that the filmmakers took the initiative to shed light upon this unknown world of the Calcutta red light district. The film depicts the lives of the sons and daughters of prostitutes who live in this area. The director, Zana Briski, uses photography to provide the children with a hope for a better future which includes the chance to pursue higher education. Through photography, the children offer viewers the opportunity to experience the world through their eyes. Their artwork included many images of pain, poverty, and a sense of hopelessness. The living conditions these children and their families endured were horrifying. It was amazing to hear the interviews with the children; they all knew what was going on around them and all felt that they could do nothing about it. The mothers did not choose to be prostitutes or live in brothels. Most of them were forced into it by the men around them. These women are constantly violated by the men around them. What is appalling is that the children are around to witness all of this chaos. This is what contributes to the violence against girls and women amongst this society. It is sad to hear that the children in this video have accepted the notion that there is no hope in their future. Those around the children have accepted life as just full of pain and sadness.

Another example of violence against girls is female genital mutilation (FGM). This practice is still very common among the people of Kenya. The culture argues that it “maintains tradition” and for that reason they continue on with the practice. In my opinion, FGM is a way to control women because it restrains their sexual urges and desires. Ultimately it is simply a violation of human rights. FGM is very risky and often results in many complications during the healing process. If a girl does not heal properly and develops an infection, according to cultural beliefs she is either possessed by demons or is a witch (FGM video). I feel that everyone has the right to critique the cultural practices of others. The lines become blurred when trying to distinguish cultural practices and torture. I feel that it is all relative. To me, FGM is torture and a way for the men to control the women within this society. However, someone else may see this differently.

Violence against girls and women is real and should not be taken lightly. I have heard countless stories told by women who are close to me, about rape, abuse and violence. It is all around us. We just need to gather up the courage necessary to fight back and overcome these hardships. Eve Ensler’s “A Teenage Girl’s Guide to Surviving Sex Slavery” was incredible. I loved how she ended it and this is how I will end my post, “no one can take anything from you if you do not give it to them.”