I think of my fab four for International Women’s Day. I trawl the internet for suitable images. My intention is to write a brief glowing paragraph on each. I look at my chosen images. I reflect on the awful truth: Malala, shot by men.
Simone, abused by a man.
Marilyn, adored by men – and maybe adored to an early death. Her dignity abused after death.
Ellen, imprisoned by men. Went on to become the first female leader of an African country.
I’m not feeling great about the collective Y chromosome thing. I extend my search. I reflect on the extent to which the lives of famous women been adversely affected or even determined by violent men or men with power or authority? (And then why should I focus only on famous women??) I go to Google, type in “famous women” and then hit “Images.” Google’s powerful algorithms make the case. Spot the odd one out!
Perhaps 7th March should be the International Day for Men to Reflect on International Women’s Day?