Have you ever heard someone say things like:
“Boys should protect girls.”
“Girls should be quiet and not speak up too much.”
“Housework is for girls; boys don’t need to help.”
These may sound like “old-fashioned thinking”, but they are actually gender stereotypes that make people feel uncomfortable or unfairly treated. Some people stop being themselves because of such words. Others are misunderstood or left out. These are examples of how gender inequality appears in our daily lives.
According to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5, the world is working to achieve gender equality and empower women and girls. But gender equality isn’t just a global goal or something only adults need to care about. Each of us can be part of the change—at school, at home and in how we treat others.
Don’t Define a Person by Their Gender
Everyone has their own personality and interests. We shouldn’t limit people just because they’re a boy or a girl. Boys can enjoy knitting or taking care of younger siblings. Girls can be great at sports or become leaders. When you see someone doing something different from what you expect based on their gender, don’t laugh or judge—instead, try to support and appreciate them. Avoiding the phrase ‘should’ gives everyone a chance to be who they truly are.
Say No to Stereotypical Language
Some phrases are common, but that doesn’t mean they’re right. —such as ‘Boys shouldn’t cry’ or ‘Girls should be gentle’. These words can make people feel pressured or not good enough. If you hear something like this, speak up or choose not to agree. One less harmful comment means one more act of respect.
Give Everyone a Fair Chance to Shine
When working in groups or choosing team leaders, don’t assume who’s better just because of gender. Try observing and communicating to understand each person’s strengths and ideas. The more people feel heard and included, the stronger and fairer the team will be.
Practice Respect and Listening
If a classmate shares how they feel, don’t rush to give advice or change the topic—listen carefully first. You may not fully understand, but you can be there, and show you care. Respect begins with listening. When you truly listen, you offer the strongest kind of support.
Start with Gender Equality at Home
Home is a great place to practise airness and respect. You can help with chores, share tasks fairly with siblings and respect everyone’s opinions. If you hear gender-biased comments, you can gently express your thoughts. More conversations at home lead to more understanding—and more equality.
Equality Begins with Everyday Choices
Gender equality doesn’t always come from big actions. It starts with daily choices: choosing not to make fun of others, not judging based on gender and choosing to listen and encourage. You don’t need to wait until you grow up or become famous. The moment you choose to act fairly is the moment you start making a difference.
fashioned
Change this to be: ‘should’
Change these 2 sentence to be what’s below to make it more grammatically correct for formal writing.
Some phrases are common, but that doesn’t mean they’re right—such as ‘Boys shouldn’t cry’ or ‘Girls should be gentle’.
This is the US version of ‘practice’ change this to be ‘practise’ to use the UK version
Reflection Activity: What would you do?
· Have you ever held back your thoughts or actions because you were afraid of “not acting like a boy/girl”?
· Have you ever put a label on someone because of their gender?
· If you saw someone being teased or excluded because of their gender, what would you do?
About SDGs
SDG 5 Gender Equality
Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.
