There is no cause for a complaint of underrepresentation when the complaining party has not taken the necessary steps to raise their voice. Across society and within many different social groups and institutions, there has been a notably disproportionate amount of activity and participation. on the part of women compared to their male counterparts. The increased role of women in politics and social institutions is undeniably commendable and should be celebrated. However, it is my observation that the fervor with which women are participating in society is not matched by men. This trend is perplexing when considered because men have been given as much opportunity as women to have an effect and be heard, but still, we see fewer and fewer men. taking an active role in their communities. Even though it is incredible to have women and their voices taken seriously, I think we should pause and ask ourselves why there is a lack of effort among men.
I have two primary worries associated with this. One is that men have adopted a laissez-faire approach to directing social policy. Two, we have not done enough to encourage men to get involved, compared to the campaign that has been given to women. This country’s history cannot be denied; our underrepresentation of women is a real, justified, and necessary cause for major social change. My main worry is that we have overcorrected too much, making men feel as though they should not have an equal say in our future because of the errors of our past. I would hate to see the work that has been done in the name of equality be erased by a belief possessed by men that the only way to be a good citizen is to lower their
voices. I fear that this sentiment has been passed on to men.
I think that society would operate best if everyone were to raise their voice, recognizing their power and duty to do so. There is still work that has to be done to achieve a truly equal society. I think that we need to do better to involve both genders in the decision-making process. This is something that we should recognize collectively because the possibility of social error alone increases when the disproportionality between two groups grows.
