Written by: Suravi Niraula - 24083, Grade XI
Posted on: 14 March, 2023
The #notallmen movement has been going around for quite some time now, specifically, ever since the voices of women against the injustices done towards them have been raised comparatively over the last few years. The statement, ‘If not all men then why all women?’ suggests an assumption that all women are subject to a particular experience or circumstance that is not experienced by all men. The ‘not all men’ movement is a response to discussions around issues such as sexual harassment, assault, and gender-based violence, in which some men feel that they are being unfairly generalized as perpetrators. While it is understandable that some men may feel defensive or uncomfortable with the idea that their gender is associated with harmful behaviors, it is important to recognize that the ‘not all men’ response can be harmful and counterproductive in several ways.
The fan following of the movement deflects attention from the issue at hand. When someone responds to discussions of sexual harassment or assault by saying ‘not all men’, they are essentially redirecting the conversation away from the issue and towards themselves. This can be frustrating and even harmful for those who are trying to address a serious problem which may be personal experience or just an awareness programme. Similarly, in most cases, by saying ‘not all men’, people are essentially denying the reality of the problem. The fact is that sexual harassment and assault are pervasive issues that affect a large number of people, particularly women. Denying the reality of the problem only reinforces the harmful attitudes and behaviors that lead to it. But whether it is due to the fragile egos or the disbelief of men, the experiences of women in these aspects are usually dismissed by saying ‘not all men’. In these cases people do not understand the fact that by saying ‘not all men’ does not resolve the problem at hand. It does not address the problem and nor does it provide any solutions. Instead, it can be seen as a form of gaslighting or invalidation directed towards those trying to share experiences. Not only that, it also implies ignorance towards intersectionality. When someone says ‘not all men’, they are often ignoring the fact that issues like sexual harassment and assault are not just a gender issue, but also an issue of power, privilege, and intersectionality. For example, in the context of Nepal, Dalit women experience sexual harassment, assault and discrimination more vividly as well as differently then Bahun women.
In conclusion, while it's understandable that some men may feel defensive or uncomfortable with the idea that their gender is associated with harmful behaviors, it's important to recognize that the ‘not all men’ response can be harmful and counterproductive. Instead of denying the reality of the problem, we need to work together to address it and create a safer, more equitable society for all.
