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In honour of Women's Day on March 8th, this month's inspo topic is: Equality. Whilst gender equality has been a huge focus in recent forms of activism such as the rise of the 'Me Too' movement, 'HeForShe' - led by Emma Watson, and protests against inequalities in the work place, we wanted to shine light on not only those issues, but the many other inequalities we face in this world. Whether that be economic inequality, inequality based on sexuality, or racial inequalities, it is hard to argue that 'equality' doesn't play a huge role in shaping who we are as humanity.
Can 'equality' ever truly be achieved in today's society?
Is 'equality' even necessary? What does it actually achieve?
What inequalities do you face in your own life?
How do we help solve inequalities in our own communities?
What does it mean to be 'equal'?
-- FILMS OF THE MONTH --
'Gattaca' (1997) dir. Andrew Niccol
(Ollie ELLARD)
In the world of ‘Gattaca’, humanity has found a way to genetically engineer fetuses so that they can reach full human potential. Some of the modifications in this world include things like, decreasing the likeliness of heart failure, depression, as well as the increasing of physical attributes such as speed and stamina. Now, how does ‘Gattaca’ fit into this month's theme of ‘equality’? Well, in the world of ‘Gattaca’, your DNA decides your value in society, with genetic modification being commonplace and “natural” humans (referred to as in-valids) looked down upon in society, only able to serve in minor functionary roles. The story follows Vincent, an in-valid, as he tries to achieve his lifelong dream of travelling to outer space. Throughout the film, he fights an uphill battle as he covertly works his way into the elite space organisation, ‘Gattaca’, despite his genetic inferiority. This dystopian setting really highlights the discriminatory element in humanity, and I believe it fits in really well with this month's theme despite the issue not being a “real issue”. With performances from other notables such as Jude Law and Uma Thurman, ‘Gattaca’ is well worth the watch, and will hopefully help you explore the idea of inequality in a stimulating, fictional setting.
'Je Ne Suis Pas Un Homme Facile' [I Am Not An Easy Man] (2018) dir. Éléonore Pourriat
(Teresa LOURENCO DE ALMEIDA LUCAS SERRA)
“I’m not sure I can give you what you want”
As an attractive and single male in Paris, Damien seems to lead a very fun and carefree life. Because he holds a high position in his job, he comfortably sees his voice heard in all matters. In very blatant ways, he approaches and uses the women around him as he wishes. However, in a very cliche manner, Damien hits his head and finds himself in a distorted reality: here, women have the privileges and reputation he used to have. Although not quite accepting this new world, Damien soon finds his virility is at risk and joins the Masculist movement while seeking to have his voice heard. In this scenario, he meets influential writer Alexandra whom he becomes infatuated with. Alexandra does not understand his views just the same way Damien does not acknowledge the norms of the world they cohabit in - however, they find in each other reasons to explore their differing yet very similar life experiences.
Just as many other French movies, 'I Am Not An Easy Man' is a harmonious combination of romance, comedy and drama. The satire and irony used throughout make it very enjoyable and easy to watch. In addition, the content of this movie is reflection-worthy which was also very appealing to me. Disparity in gender roles is a challenging topic to cover, but the way different perspectives were explored through the two main characters and their relationship was phenomenally achieved. Because of Damien and Alexandra’s romantic involvement, they become emotionally attached to each other which leads to them wanting to understand each other and this made the message of the movie even more meaningful - conflicting views do not have to mean divergence among people, but rather the opposite, if we try to understand each other we often learn a lot more about ourselves and those who surround us.
Along the past years, gender equality has been a recurring discussion among people. As mentioned before, 'I Am Not An Easy Man' covers double standards in gender roles in a very interesting way. While I do not want to spoil the movie, I can’t keep myself from referring to the ending as an impactful yet somewhat unfinished wrap that surely makes one reflect upon the issue of double standards in gender beyond the frames of this movie. This makes it not only watch-worthy for entertainment purposes, but also as a way of sparking conversation on how gender equality might be something that must come from change in the foundations we have laid societal structures upon, change that is hopefully to be sparked through understanding, compassion and love among human beings regardless of gender.
This movie can be found on Netflix.
-- SONGS OF THE MONTH --
*click for links
(Lorelei CAIRNS)
Each of these songs has an appeal that is immediate, and a message that is instantly accessible. Songs like ‘Respect’, ‘Everyday People’, and ‘Fight Da Power’ provide us with commentaries on the inequalities that exist in our world. However, they also provide us with a sense of hope and motivate us to work towards establishing more compassionate and empathetic societies. They enable people to understand and engage with relevant social issues. Thus, these songs have become rallying cries for groups throughout history, fighting for equality.
-- BOOK OF THE MONTH --
(Hila DAVIES)
‘Things A Bright Girl Can Do’ explores the lives of three young women from the beginning of the British suffrage movement to the partial gaining of suffrage in 1918. Following their stories and their involvement in the movement (in a variety of different ways), Nicholls portrays a narrative of protest, youth and oppression through this well-rounded novel. Touching on inequalities such as the historic LGBTQIA+ injustices, early 20th century London poverty, and social hierarchies - this novel looks at much more than its focusing theme of female suffrage. For a historic look at inequality, ‘Things A Bright Girl Can Do’ is the perfect novel to delve deeper into what it means to be equal and how an exterior portrayal of equality and/or perfection is not all it’s made out to be...
*read more about it here
As you step into this new month, take a moment to think and reflect. What does equality mean to you? We hope you all have a fantastically empowering month and remember that things can always change if you put your mind to it, you just have to believe...
Don't Be Afraid. Speak Out. Never Suffer In Silence.
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