16 Little Things a Man Can Do to Support and Empower the Women in His Life
More and more men are stepping up and identifying as feminists, championing women’s equality, and doing whatever they can to support the women in their lives. But words alone aren’t enough! All those well meaning men need to back those beliefs with meaningful action. Amnesty International has highlighted a few simple, everyday ways men can actively support the women in their lives. If men everywhere started practicing these small but powerful actions on a daily basis, women around the world would feel more empowered, respected, and truly valued. Let’s turn good intentions into real change today!
Stop Mansplaining
Mansplaining is something so many men do without even realizing it. They start to explain things in simple, almost idiotic terms, assuming that women know nothing about the topic, whether it’s sport, cars, or mathematics. Men need to stop explaining things that women already fully understand and respect their expertise and intelligence in that matter.
Do Not Catcall
Shouting out to a woman to say that she looks good is actually not flattering. It’s creepy and uncomfortable. It can be incredibly unnerving for women to be yelled at and have their appearance made the center of attention among people they don’t even know. Many men think catcalling is “harmless fun,” but it needs to stop. It is inappropriate and can make women extremely stressed.
Believe What Women Say
Women’s opinions are often discarded as emotional and, therefore, irrational. When a woman reacts to a certain topic or event, her response is typically valid and accurate. Men should stop disregarding what women say and start believing them! Valuing women’s perspectives – even when different than yours – can lead to more meaningful and productive interactions.
Actively Listen
When women start to talk, stop and listen. Fight your urge to interrupt and listen for real! Some men tend to be passive listeners, not giving women 100% attention. When you truly stop to hear what a woman has to say, you will be surprised by what you can learn. Listening to women genuinely can build stronger and more respectful relationships that will be reciprocated.
Learn About Reproductive Health
A woman’s body is much, much different than a man’s, and it would do all men some good to learn more about how the female body works, especially when it comes to reproductive health. Understanding how a woman’s body works will open the eyes of many men. This knowledge can be used to help women feel better and be healthier while also understanding the struggle they have to go through every month.
Don’t Judge Appearances
Men need to stop making assumptions about women based on their appearance, such as the clothes they choose. What a woman wears does not reflect her morality. Some women like to dress a little sexier, while others are more comfortable when in cozy sweatpants. Clothing is a matter of taste and comfort, not something a woman should be judged on.
Give Credit When It’s Due
Women’s efforts are often overlooked, especially in the workplace, where they are still underrepresented. When a woman is successful at work or home, they deserve to be recognized for their efforts and be praised for it. Men need to ensure they give women full credit for their work, contributions, and ideas to make them feel appreciated and valued.
Advocate for Women
Many men say that they support women and women’s rights, but they should prove it! Words means nothing without actions. Get out there and push for equality in rallies, marches, and in the workplace. Men need to be more active in pushing for women’s rights if they truly want to support women. Their participation and active advocacy can drive real change and equality.
Step Up at Home
Women often take on the majority of the day-to-day household activities. If men want to really make life easier for women, they need to do more when at home. Do the cleaning, cook her a nice dinner, and take care of the kids. Doing your fair share, or more, will seriously help the women in your life and create a more balanced and supportive partnership.
Challenge Sexism
When men hear others being sexist or actually harassing a woman, they need to step in and stop it. Do not look the other way when a woman is being treated unfairly. Addressing sexism helps create a safer and more respectful environment for not only women but for everyone around you. Step up and help when you can! Women will surely be grateful.
Ask If Women Need Help
Women often take on many tasks and manage them without asking for help. However, it is always nice when a man asks how they can help. You may make a woman’s life a little easier just by asking! She may accept your offer, or she may just feel good knowing that a man is there to support her if needed. Offering help shows thoughtfulness and care.
Do More
There is always more that men can do to help women. From advocating for equality in the workplace to helping at home to just being a supportive person, men can help make women’s lives easier in so many ways! Men should sit down and think about what they can do to help women and then act on it. Do more, be better, and always try harder.
Bring the Good Food
Women are busy! They are so busy that they can sometimes forget to eat a nutritious meal. Snacking and grabbing a quick bit isn’t always satisfying. Take charge and offer to make a healthy, tasty meal for the woman in your life. Show up at her office with lunch or prepare dinner to be ready and wait for her when she gets home. Food is a love language for so many women, and this little gesture may seem basic, but it can be life-changing.
Respect Their Space
Some women love to be alone. Even those who are social and enjoy a good party want peace and quiet upon occasion. Make sure you respect a woman’s space, both physical and emotional. Whether it is letting her have her own room in the house or just letting her be alone when needed, women will appreciate your ability to recognize their need for space.
Encourage Other Men
You may be incredibly supportive of women, but what about your friends? Are they as interested as you in this topic? If not, talking about this may be a great way to lead more men to develop an interest in gender equality. Of course, do not force it. You cannot convince someone to do something if they are not ready. However, trying to have an open discussion about it could be a great starting point.
Push For Wage Equality
Women have long been paid less than men. Women still make only about 84 cents for every dollar a man makes. While this gap has been decreasing, it needs to continue to get smaller! Men need to speak up for women’s pay equality! While petitions, rallies, and conversations about the subject are important, men also need to take actual action when they can. Any man who is in charge of paying a woman or setting their salary needs to make it equal to the salary of a man in a similar position. Take note, male bosses everywhere, and make a change!
This Article was inspired by Amnesty International.
