Change Starts at Home: Raising Boys to Value Equality
Meg Keogh, COO of Arize and mum of three (including her son Isaac), knows firsthand the challenges of raising boys in a society full of harmful stereotypes. Today, on International Women’s Day, Meg reflects on the importance of raising boys for a more equitable future.
The divide
The gender divide is a pervasive issue that affects women in numerous ways, from unrealistic expectations and salary gaps to domestic violence and other confronting challenges.
Given that we are all born with a blank slate, it begs the question: at what stage of life does the gender divide start to become apparent?
“As a little boy, there are no prejudices. I have two girls and a boy, and right now, there’s this bliss period,” Meg explains. “Isaac doesn’t see his sisters as having any different opportunities than him. Everything’s equal.”
However, a divide does begin to form later in childhood and Meg understands the importance of stepping in early – as it directly impacts a young person’s self-perception, their position in the world, and the opportunities they’re afforded based on gender.
Monkey see, monkey do
As a parent, Meg also knows firsthand that children are like sponges, soaking up the behaviours and information around them.
Harmful stigmas often take root in the playground or at home and can shape a child’s self-perception and opportunities based on gender.
From ages six to 15, boys look up to the men in their lives as a reflection of themselves and their future selves. Whether it’s fathers, grandfathers, uncles, or friends, it’s vital that these men set a positive example.
According to Meg, “Boys need positive role models, whether it’s a guitar teacher, sports coach, or the people they see on YouTube. They will follow the lead of influential people, so it’s essential for men to have these conversations and open up options, representation, and positive dialogue for everyone.”
Talk, talk, talk
The impact of our words extends far beyond ‘harmless jokes’ and calling out harmful behaviour. True change begins at home for Meg, where open conversations about equality can pave the way for better behaviours and a better future.
“I think if there are conversations being had from a young age, then that becomes Isaac’s norm. He’ll just think, “that’s what I’ve always been taught, that’s my lived experience.””
“I know that’s not the case for everyone, not everyone has those conversations. What I hope is that there is a period in time in which another little boy or man says something close-minded and Isaac says “no, I don’t think that’s right”.
Conversations about equality are tough, even for seasoned communication professionals like Meg, but she recognises the power of words and the importance of starting conversations about equality with her own children.
And Meg firmly believes that one of the most effective ways to create change is by raising boys who understand and value equality. By instilling these values early on, we can break down harmful stereotypes and pave the way for a more inclusive society.
“The easiest way for change to take place is for those that are in a position of influence to start conversations around equality, and more importantly, put those words into action. It’s only then that progress can take place.”
