This summer my family was lucky enough to visit my parent's birth country of India; this brief trip is considered a luxury since my parents are rarely able to take time away from their busy lives. In the weeks leading up to the trip, my enthusiasm exponentially increased and I couldn't wait to be immersed in my culture. However, I came to an eye-opening revelation after stepping out of my suburban bubble. The raw lands that seemed beautiful and vibrant were unable to offer refuge to women haunted by the defects of the country itself.
The eight years of separation between myself and the country seemed to blur many of the memories I possessed. I had seen the country as sacred, divine, the epitome of wisdom. When in reality that is only how men see the country. Women here are forced to live in the shadow of their other half, they are abused by systemic oppression that aims to keep them below men. Women here are fed, educated, and raised only to become wives.
This became increasingly clear after a visit to my grandparents. After being greeted by my Dadu and Dadi I noticed something significant. My Dadu, or grandfather, wore a typical western outfit, which consisted of a button-down and pants. Whereas my Dadi or grandmother wore a more traditional Indian clothing. When I later asked her why she didn't wear western clothing like Dadu she said: "It's part of the culture."
During the visit, my Dadu and Dadi had made it a mission to teach me how to become the perfect wife during my time there. I had spent hours each day completing the chores they requested. I listened to them praise my male cousins for their career goals, yet shun me for mine. I would spend a majority of each day completing tasks for the men of the household and I was expected to ask for nothing in return.
In the few weeks I spent there I realized what my grandmother meant when she said "part of the culture." The culture is founded on the oppression of women, and the Indian public has become desensitized to the mistreatment of women. The issue is not the submissive demeanor of Indian women, that is a byproduct of centuries of abuse.
We need to change the woman degrading culture, not only in India but all around the world. We must teach the youth that it is unacceptable to treat women in such a poor manner, we must emphasize equality and discipline all those who feel as though they can get away with blatant sexism. How are things supposed to change if people aren't held accountable for their actions?
