#Everyday activism
So I had romo, regret of missing out[1]. Romo, because I didn’t attend the women’s march in Amsterdam on International Women’s Day. So many people took to the streets for a cause that’s very close to my heart, and I wasn’t there. I don’t even have a particularly good reason other than finding crowds intimidating and not knowing how to carry myself as a protester. A bit weak, I’ll admit right away.
I am furious, actually. That during my lifetime, women’s rights are going BACKWARDS globally. From abortion rights (without mandatory registration), to the introduction of humane alternatives to female circumcision as initiation rites, to access to education and equal career opportunities. Just to name a few.
Anger can be paralyzing. It’s a mental pitfall, the overwhelming feeling that you don’t know where to start. Even though we’ve been fighting this battle for decades already – a battle I thought we wouldn’t need to fight anymore. I had assumed that would simply improve on their own, no more dedicated love and courage needed. Especially here, in the Netherlands.
I may not march in a protest, but I tap into my activism daily. By continuing the conversation with clients, by explicitly questioning and naming prejudices, and pushing for more ambitious goals of equal opportunities. I also do it by sharing my personal story with other women and men. Or by seeking out role models and celebrating what does work.
By connecting with what I stand for: open dialogue, embracing discomfort, thinking beyond your comfort zone. Daring to be touched by another’s perspective.
Being brave together and engaging in dialogue with those who think differently, from a place of curiosity, and understanding where perspectives come from, is crucial if we want to create real, lasting change.
When was the last time you stepped outside of your bubble?
[1] A word invented by the Dutch writer and comedian Paulien Cornelisse
#Challenging assumptions
Challenging assumptions is a crucial part of creating real change. Whether in activism, business, or everyday conversations, questioning biases and engaging with different perspectives helps push progress forward. In this interview, Nordin from Van Lanschot Kempen shares his thoughts on the power of open dialogue and the impact of looking beyond the obvious.
Read the full blog post here: Speaking of Assumptions: Interview with Nordin from Van Lanschot Kempen
Gender equality is not a women’s issue – it’s a matter for all of us. Let’s make a difference together. Be an ally!
Book ‘Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don’t Know’ by Adam Grant
Gender equality is not a women’s issue – it’s a matter for all of us. Let’s make a difference together. Be an ally! In Think Again, Adam Grant explores the power of rethinking and shows how the ability to change your mind is a crucial skill in a rapidly changing world. Through compelling stories and sharp insights, he offers a guide to unlearning outdated beliefs, staying mentally flexible, and encouraging others to do the same.
Whether you’re standing up for migrants, LGBTQ+ people, or any other minority – a winning narrative always follows the same rules. I learned that from the world’s best progressive campaigners.
