When boys his age would go to school or loiter around in the community, 16-year-old Vinayak wanted to learn about human rights and gender inequalities around him. It has been more than a year that Vinayak has been part of the gender-equitable sessions conducted by ECF. He says that he has become more receptive towards his family members, gives a listening ear to girls and talks to them ensuring their voices are heard.
Come, read what this Little Human has to share with us!
Q. Hello! Can you tell me what are your hobbies and the things that you like to do?
My hobby is playing cricket. I have been practising at home daily!
Q. How have you been spending your time during the pandemic and the lockdown? How have you been feeling?
I have been engaging myself by drawing and doing craftwork during the pandemic. I also cook at home every day!
Q. What changed for you in the pandemic? Did you notice any difference in your household activities and chores amidst the several lockdowns?
I felt bored and restless at home and did not like that I could not go out to meet anyone.
Q. What do you think about growing up as a boy? Is it different from growing up as a girl? If yes, can you share how is it different? If no, can you share how it is the same?
There is no difference between boys and girls as both are capable of doing everything.
Q. How long have you been part of the sessions conducted by the ECF foundation?
Over a year
Q. What happens in these sessions? Can you describe it to me?
A. We play games, listen to stories and discuss different kinds of human rights and how these are not the same for everyone even though they should be.
Q. What is your favourite part of these sessions?
I love the games and stories and find them very interesting.
Q. How are the sessions different from other activities that you may have been part of?
ECF works on skill-building and creativity development which I like a lot.
Q. How do you contribute to house chores? How do your parents, siblings, grandparents, relatives and other friends react?
They are supportive and appreciative of me doing household chores.
Q. What were some of the changes that you saw before joining the sessions and after going through the program?
I am more receptive to my family members now and listen to them, I have also started sharing responsibilities at home which I did not do before.
Q. What is your take on ‘Mardaangi’?
I think instead of harassing women on the street, mardaangi should be about being respectful and caring towards your parents and taking responsibility for household chores.
Q. How do you support women and girls? How do you become an ally?
By talking to them, listening to them, and ensuring their voices are heard.
Q.A message you would like to share for all young boys your age?
Every boy should do domestic chores and be caring towards all their family members.
