Unfortunately, the discriminatory facts linked to sexism transcend the workplace: there is gender discrimination in health, religion, sports, etc.
Gender discrimination is an expression that identifies one of the many forms of discrimination that, unfortunately, are suffered (and must be fought) worldwide.
It is worth remembering that, according to its interpretation from theory, discriminating is an action linked to the segregation, separation and exclusion of something or someone. From a sociocultural perspective, gender is a concept that divides beings according to the characteristics they have in common.
When discrimination is driven by issues linked to sex, the notions of sexism , gender discrimination and sexual discrimination become visible.
This phenomenon that violates human rights and translates into violence and inequality occurs in multiple areas and has people of different ages as victims. Cases of gender discrimination have been reported and detected within the framework of the educational system, within the workplace, in the field of health, in the field of politics, in sports and in daily life.
As this problem has different causes, manifestations and consequences, it is important to seek advice, carry out awareness campaigns and constantly work individually and collectively to prevent it, stop it and thus be able to evolve towards a more just, harmonious, respectful, free and equitable society. .
What does gender discrimination imply and generate?
In order to measure the severity of episodes of gender discrimination, it is necessary to know what these types of acts imply and generate.
Rejection of gender identity and prejudice drive this type of exclusion and inequality . Segregating, humiliating, offending, stigmatizing or conditioning treatment based on the perception that each being has of themselves in terms of gender or sexual orientation is unacceptable.
That is why it is essential to instill values from childhood, encourage tolerance , cultivate empathy and promote, at all times and places, respect for others regardless of their lifestyle, their beliefs, their gender, age, nationality, their choices. intimate, etc.
To establish an egalitarian model at all levels, it is necessary to break down gender stereotypes and overcome the limitations and obstacles associated with gender roles . Gender activism is also essential in pursuit of the protection and promotion of women's rights, that gender parity exists and is applied and that in each country there is a solid gender policy capable of translating into greater security. , equity and dignity .
Women and members of the LGBTIQ+ community , for example, are exposed daily to injustices, take risks and even end up losing their lives due, to a large extent, to misogyny and machismo .
Female empowerment and the struggle of many women aims to defeat patriarchy, fight sexist behavior and make themselves heard to make their needs and rights visible, for example.
Psychological and social consequences
Gender discrimination impacts each victim differently but always leaves both psychological and social consequences.
When there is gender inequality and the actions of officials, educators, doctors or judges without a gender perspective , according to mental health specialists, cases of depression , anxiety and low self-esteem multiply within the female population.
Belonging to the female gender and growing up with aesthetic pressures linked to beauty and gender standards , being exposed from an early age to micro-machismo and carrying responsibilities or social mandates simply for being part of the group of women prevents many of them from displaying their full potential. have professional aspirations, be healthy and feel completely free. Eating disorders, stress, demotivation and a constant feeling of frustration or fear end up affecting, in this context, a large number of women of various ages who, for different reasons, become victims of patriarchy .
Each individual has the right to live responsibly and freely based on the sexual orientation and gender identity they prefer without this being a reason for aggression, discriminatory acts, ridicule, rejection or any other negative and disrespectful action.
Expressions of gender discrimination
Gender discrimination , a problem made visible, denounced and fought by multiple organizations and movements that transcend borders, has various expressions or manifestations.
This gives rise to, among other issues, the gender gap , imbalances in opportunities and wage inequality .
The phenomenon known as the glass ceiling is also associated with this type of discrimination because it implies the presence of barriers and restrictions so that someone cannot progress professionally and obtain job promotions.
Although each evidence of discrimination would have to generate rejection and be punished accordingly within the margins of the law, transphobia and gender violence , which can lead to harassment , abuse , episodes of sexual harassment or femicides , require a more comprehensive approach. urgent and profound to put an end to so much intimidating, dangerous and destructive behavior.
We must never lose sight of the fact that behind gender indicators and statistics there are always people who feel, suffer or endure injustice , domestic violence and other realities that can be prevented with education , positive examples, good values, social sensitivity, inclusive legislation. and egalitarian and a judicial system that is up to the task in the face of discriminatory, aggressive or criminal acts that sow panic , insecurity and death .