Oct 1
To believe in equality for women is not simply an intellectual positioning I take; it is a moral obligation. Women deserve the same political, social, and economic rights as men, not as an act of charity, but as a reflection of their inherent humanity. This is not about diminishing men to raise women, but about correcting an imbalance that has gone unquestioned for far too long.
As a man, I ask myself: How can I actively contribute to the ongoing struggle for women’s rights, not as an outsider, but as a true ally?
First, I must educate myself. The history of women’s fight for equality is long, complex, and ongoing. It is my responsibility to understand that history, as well as the issues women face today. This knowledge is not passive—it informs me how I interact with the world and shapes the actions I take.
Second, I must listen. Truly listen. Not with the intent to respond, but with the intent to understand. The experiences of women in my life — my colleagues, friends, family, and especially my daughter; are the foundation of my learning. Through their stories, I gain insight into the barriers they face, and through their struggles, I find where my voice and actions can be of value.
Third, I must not be a bystander. Whether it’s a workplace, public setting, or even within my own community, I have a responsibility to stand up against violence or discrimination when it occurs. Silence perpetuates injustice. I cannot remain indifferent to the suffering of others, especially when my inaction would contribute to it.
Lastly, I must challenge the systems and mindsets around me, particularly among fellow men. I have a unique opportunity to engage in conversations that might feel uncomfortable but are necessary. When I speak against sexist attitudes, I’m not just correcting the behavior of others; I’m reinforcing a new standard for how we treat each other as human beings. It’s a small but significant way of reshaping the world for my daughter and for the women who will come after her.
This is more than a call to action. It is a promise, a commitment I make to myself; to continuously grow, to question my own biases, to become the kind of man who contributes to a more just and equal world. And it is a promise to my daughter—that I will strive to be an example of the respect, understanding, and compassion that all women deserve. In doing so, I hope to leave her a world better than the one I inherited, a world where her worth will never be in question.
— Sincerely, Boris
As a man, I ask myself: How can I actively contribute to the ongoing struggle for women’s rights, not as an outsider, but as a true ally?
First, I must educate myself. The history of women’s fight for equality is long, complex, and ongoing. It is my responsibility to understand that history, as well as the issues women face today. This knowledge is not passive—it informs me how I interact with the world and shapes the actions I take.
Second, I must listen. Truly listen. Not with the intent to respond, but with the intent to understand. The experiences of women in my life — my colleagues, friends, family, and especially my daughter; are the foundation of my learning. Through their stories, I gain insight into the barriers they face, and through their struggles, I find where my voice and actions can be of value.
Third, I must not be a bystander. Whether it’s a workplace, public setting, or even within my own community, I have a responsibility to stand up against violence or discrimination when it occurs. Silence perpetuates injustice. I cannot remain indifferent to the suffering of others, especially when my inaction would contribute to it.
Lastly, I must challenge the systems and mindsets around me, particularly among fellow men. I have a unique opportunity to engage in conversations that might feel uncomfortable but are necessary. When I speak against sexist attitudes, I’m not just correcting the behavior of others; I’m reinforcing a new standard for how we treat each other as human beings. It’s a small but significant way of reshaping the world for my daughter and for the women who will come after her.
This is more than a call to action. It is a promise, a commitment I make to myself; to continuously grow, to question my own biases, to become the kind of man who contributes to a more just and equal world. And it is a promise to my daughter—that I will strive to be an example of the respect, understanding, and compassion that all women deserve. In doing so, I hope to leave her a world better than the one I inherited, a world where her worth will never be in question.
— Sincerely, Boris
October 1st marks the first day of Women’s History Month in Canada. And this is my pledge to all the women in my life.
