\u201cWe learned from our previous workshops with men and women that it was always the men who spoke the most, even though there were very strong women in the group,\u201d <\/em>said Nyman. \u201cAnd the men speaking still had their own bias.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\r\n The workshops focused on breaking gender biases and raising awareness about gender as a societal construct. Participants grappled with ingrained stereotypes about gender roles, such as “women\u2019s jobs” versus “men\u2019s jobs.”<\/p>\r\n\r\n The workshops took an inclusive approach by addressing how men, too, are affected by gendered issues. Topics such as wage disparity, societal pressure, mental, sexual and reproductive health challenges and the stigma around expressing vulnerability were openly discussed, building trust and shared understanding among the participants.<\/p>\r\n Participants explored the concepts of:<\/p>\r\n This set the stage for examining how societal norms perpetuate inequality and how trade union activists can play a key role in changing these systems not just in the workplace but in the home as well. \u201cYou must become gender activists,\u201d<\/em> Nyman implored participants.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n Discussions highlighted factors that contribute to widespread harassment and violence against women, including cultural beliefs, financial dependence and intimidation. Participants acknowledged how societal norms around dress codes, poverty, and even digital platforms fuel harmful behaviours. They were asked to make a pledge to combat gender-violence and support victims. Some shared personal resolutions, such as intervening in cases of domestic violence.<\/p>\r\n The workshops referenced UNI Equal Opportunities\u2019 campaign around the three Ms \u2013 menstruation, maternity and menopause \u2013 and why it is essential that women do not face discrimination through these life experiences and are instead supported in the workplace.<\/p>\r\n Participants identified behaviours that perpetuate inequality – in the home, at work and in society – and strategies for achieving gender equality in these areas. These include sharing household chores and caring responsibilities equally; ensuring equal opportunities for pay, promotions and leadership; and promoting the education and empowerment of girls.<\/p>\r\n Real-Life impact: Victor\u2019s* story<\/strong><\/p>\r\n One participant, Victor, shared his upbringing in a household that championed gender equality. From an early age, he learned to cook, clean, and share responsibilities with his siblings, regardless of gender. His father inspired equal aspirations, encouraging both sons and daughters to envision themselves as leaders. His story underlined importance of starting gender equality efforts at home by raising children with shared responsibilities and mutual respect.<\/p>\r\n *Name changed.<\/p>\r\n<\/blockquote>\r\n In discussing the workshops, Nyman said: \u201cUnions are male dominated, not just in representation, but also in leadership style.\u201d<\/em> \u00a0She encouraged the male trade union leaders to be supportive of women in unions and constructive with criticism, and push for parental rights and occupational health and safety in union negotiations.<\/p>\r\n “Creating spaces where men can confront their own biases and engage with the realities of gender inequity is transformative. These workshops aren’t just about understanding women’s experiences – they’re about reshaping what it means to be an ally and challenging societal constructs that limit us all. True gender equality is achieved when we turn awareness into action and already, we are beginning to see positive changes in our unions on this front,<\/em>” concluded Nyman.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Trade union leaders and shop stewards from UNI Global Union affiliates in Ghana, Kenya and Mozambique took part in UNI Africa\u2019s first ever gender equality workshops entirely for men. The workshops were held as part of UNI Africa\u2019s project with the Finnish Trade Union Solidarity Centre (SASK), which includes a goal to increase women\u2019s representation<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":13,"featured_media":26554,"template":"","categories":[],"global-issues":[],"sectors":[],"cross-sector-groups":[25],"workers-rights":[],"regions":[87],"topics":[],"class_list":["post-26553","news","type-news","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","cross-sector-groups-equal-opportunities","regions-uni-africa"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/uniglobalunion.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Ghana-gender-workshop-group-1024x768.jpg\")
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