In a class this week we were asked to discuss the role of gender inequality in developing nations. It seemed as though my peers had some unanimous understanding that the promotion, encouragement and occasional celebration of gender roles could stifle a nation’s opportunity for economic growth, a notion supported by empirical evidence.
I realized that this idea could apply to more than just a developing nation’s economic status. Recent articles like those written by Ms. Cetak motivated me to shed some light on an issue that lends a different perspective on the topic of gender inequality.
The article, “Bros at the gym,” while mildly entertaining, shields perhaps an underlying sentiment.
I understand how a woman could be uncomfortable in an environment where men disproportionately outnumber women. But to interpret the men’s intentions solely by their dress and the slang among their friends is unwarranted. The reason women are not better-represented in Half Acre is not because of these “bros,” but perhaps due to the insecurities referred to in the “Chicks in the bathroom” article.
We all have insecurities, and most people are particularly sensitive to those involving physical appearances. Walking into a crowded gym to improve your health and physical shape through hard work and exercise — in an environment that puts you on display — is a courageous thing to do regardless of gender. One should not alienate men from this circumstance by implying that only women are affected by the observations of others.
Reinforcing the presence of these stereotypes with apparently little sincere interaction with these “bros” is harmful.
By using a comical juxtaposition like the one offered in “Bros at the gym,” women and men are compartmentalized into groups with little potential for gender integration. It also promotes the use of the seemingly misinterpreted actions of the “bros” as a tool to shield one’s self from recognizing insecurities. The goals for university students should include both personal and intellectual growth.
Going back to my class, it seems that the lessons learned transcend national governments and apply to the prosperity of the individual as well. It is mutually beneficial to all parties to promote the integration of genders. Not that it was the intention of the author to do so, but this is not accomplished by the caricatures so crudely portrayed in “Bros at the gym” and “Chicks in the bathroom.”
People should not be ostracized for their choices regarding forms of self-expression, nor should this be condoned amongst members of the UW community. We see these “bro” and “chick” characteristics amplified on television for our entertainment, as it should be. This is where we can laugh and wave at the humor provided by those outliers, but this convention should not have a place in a student newspaper.
The UW community should not be in the practice of promoting and using gender differences to alienate groups of people. You might be surprised how accommodating and kind those “bros” can be in a crowded gym. And it should not be surprised by the level of respect and admiration bestowed to an individual possessing the courage to face their insecurities head on, and overcome them.
