Lecture on Internalized Patriarchy and Misogyny

Introduction

• Personal narrative on experiences of misogyny and internalized patriarchy.
• Reflection on how women sometimes perpetuate patriarchy.

Personal Experiences

• Childhood Incident: Recollection of being groped by a mother's friend’s husband; was told it was accidental and advised not to tell.
• Observation of Neighbor's Household:
  • Neighbor served son first, criticized daughter.
  • Aunt ate leftovers, showing acceptance of traditional gender roles.
• School Experience:
  • In 10th grade, faced rumors started by a teacher’s son.
  • Complained but was insulted by the teacher due to the uniform.

Other Examples of Internalized Misogyny

• Maid's Experience: Mother-in-law burnt her books post-marriage.
• Workplace Dynamics: Female colleague criticized for early promotion.
• Societal Norms:
  • Woman at chemist insisted on black polythene for sanitary pads.
  • Grandmother advised losing weight for marriage prospects.
  • Sister instructed on shaving legs before wearing a short dress.

Reflections on Misogyny

• Realization that women often enforce the patriarchal expectations on other women.
• Impact of internalized misogyny on self-worth and dignity.

Personal Growth and Hope

• At 24, the speaker is attempting to unlearn ingrained misogynistic beliefs.
• Efforts to support and empower other women.
• Hope for a future with mutual love, respect, and equality.

Conclusion

• The desire to move past learned misogyny and cultivate a society free of these biases.
• Hope for a world where women are not taught to denigrate each other and such narratives are no longer necessary.