World We Dare to Imagine Pt. 1

When I read this quote, my immediate thought was that we all have a social responsibility to each other. Some of us are blessed to be born into a world with more than enough essential resources and necessities to survive. On top of that, we have opportunities, education, fun, hobbies, passions, and so many other privileges. However, some are born into a reality where they fight daily to survive. They are born into worlds without basic rights, freedoms, or opportunities. 

Those of us born with privilege need to recognize what we have and the blessings we have been afforded. However, it is not enough to recognize and be thankful for what we have. We need to adopt the mentality that it is all of our job to fight for those who might not have a voice but need help. We are all on this planet together but live drastically different lives. We must use our privilege to create a better world for all of us.

The way I would like to be a better global citizen is to first start by learning and listening. I do not understand the reality and mentality that underprivileged people take on as they fight to survive. I would start by entering a community and trying to understand what they go through and how they approach life. Before I can enact change or help in any way, it is important to listen and learn from those you are trying to help. I want to understand their lives and what they want most from them. This process of learning develops a great deal of respect and allows you to help in more meaningful and effective ways. 

While there are many areas of the world that require help and attention and many issues to focus on, one that is particularly important to me is women's rights, especially in India, where my family is from. I grew up in America and was raised by a father who instilled in me from as early as I can remember that I can do anything I set my mind to. Not only did he teach me that I have the power and the competency to do whatever I set my mind to, he expected me to succeed and work hard for my dreams. He empowered me in many ways and raised me to be the ambitious and confident woman I am today.

However, this is a rare way to grow up within my culture. As I watched my grandparents, parents, and even my older cousins, I recognized an inherent disrespect and disregard for women within our culture. Because of the way I was raised, I was shocked to see my older cousin, who is just eight years older than I am, get arranged married to a man she had spoken to twice. She was then shipped off to live with his family and was miserable. She had no freedom or goals in her choices. She did all the housework and cooking for the family; her only responsibility was having children. Women cook all the food and then serve the men. They then wait in the kitchen for the men to finish. Only then can they begin eating. 

There are many other families who incorporate these traditions and ways of life in their households. Unfortunately, it can be a lot worse for Indian women than it was in my family for my cousin. There are deep-rooted views of inferiority for women in my country. This becomes abundantly clear when you learn about the issue of prostitution for Indian women and girls, as we did in class.

Due to the combination of my life experiences and the recent issues I have learned through class, this is where I want to make my mark. I do not know how I can help the most and what is the best way to go about it. However, this is where I would like to start.