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In her song "The Man," Taylor Swift highlights the double standards that women face in the workplace and in society as a whole. 

"I'm so sick of running as fast as I can, wondering if I'd get there quicker if I was a man"

PLUTO UDECHUKWU | 15-04-23
EDITOR | CO-FOUNDER

Remarkably, in society today, women still face harmful stereotypes and biases that limit their opportunities and experiences. These harmful stereotypes damage young girls and make them believe that being excellent and intelligent is not because of their hard work, but their looks. Unfortunately, misogyny, or hatred and prejudice against women, is still prevalent in our society today. Women often face discrimination and sexism in various aspects of their lives, including the workplace, politics, and even in their personal relationships. This discrimination can take many forms, such as unequal pay, lack of opportunities for advancement, and pervasive gender stereotypes.

 

One of the most significant ways in which women experience misogyny is in the workplace. It is no secret that women often have to work harder than men to achieve the same level of success. They may have to prove themselves repeatedly, while their male counterparts benefit from the doubt. Women are also often subjected to microaggressions and other forms of subtle bias, which can make it difficult for them to feel valued and respected in their careers.

 

In her song "The Man," Taylor Swift highlights the double standards that women face in the workplace and in society as a whole. The lyrics of the song include the following lines:

 

"I'm so sick of running as fast as I can, wondering if I'd get there quicker if I was a man"

 

These lyrics speak to the frustration many women feel when they realize that no matter how hard they work, they may never be able to achieve the same level of success as a man in the same position. Women have to work twice as hard to prove themselves capable and competent, while men often receive promotions and recognition simply because of their gender.

 

Furthermore, women who do make it to the top of their fields are often subjected to harsh criticism and scrutiny. They may be seen as "bossy" or "difficult," while men who exhibit the same behaviours are praised for their leadership skills. This double standard can make it difficult for women to be taken seriously and to feel confident in their abilities.  One of the most insidious aspects of misogyny is that it is often so deeply ingrained in our culture and society that it can be difficult to recognize and challenge. Even well-meaning individuals may unwittingly perpetuate sexist attitudes and behaviours, such as assuming that women are less competent or capable than men or expecting women to conform to traditional gender roles and stereotypes.

 

This can profoundly impact women's opportunities and experiences, both in the workplace and in their personal lives. For example, women may be passed over for promotions or job opportunities simply because of their gender, or they may be subjected to harassment or discrimination on the basis of their sex. This can create a hostile and unwelcoming environment that can be difficult to navigate, especially for women just starting their careers.

 

At the same time, women are often expected to perform a disproportionate amount of unpaid labour, such as childcare and household chores. This can make it even more challenging for women to succeed in their careers, as they may be forced to choose between advancing professionally and fulfilling their responsibilities at home.

 

It is important to recognize that misogyny is not just about individual attitudes or behaviours - it is also deeply intertwined with systems of power and privilege. Women of colour, LGBTQ+ women, and women from marginalized communities may face even greater barriers to success and equality due to the intersectional nature of their identities.

 

In conclusion, misogyny is a pervasive problem that keeps women back in various aspects of their lives. Women often have to work harder than men to achieve the same level of success, and even then, they may face discrimination and bias. It is up to all of us to challenge and dismantle the structures of misogyny and sexism that pervade our society. This means actively working to recognize and challenge our biases and advocating for policies and practices that promote gender equality and support women's advancement. As Taylor Swift's song "The Man" reminds us, it is time to break down the barriers that hold women back and create a more just and equitable world for all.

WRITTEN BY PLUTO UDECHUKWU

Pluto Udechukwu, a 10th grader at Immaculata High School, mainly covers the newsroom's opinion and multimedia sections. She is also the CO-editor and CO-founder of Immaculata Chronicles she also created the news website. Pluto is on the Cross-country and girl's hockey teams at Immaculata. Outside of school, pluto loves figure skating and is a member of the Nepean skating club. She also enjoys baking in her free time. 

Pluto can be reached as pluto.udechukwu@stu.ocsb.ca

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