Let’s start with a story about a man, even though it’s about Women’s History Month.
Muhsin Hendricks, known as the world’s first openly gay imam, was shot dead in South Africa. He led a mosque for marginalized Muslims and, despite threats to his life, once said, “the need to be authentic was greater than the fear to die.”
Why start with a man’s story? Because, historically, the oppression of women often comes from men’s own guilt and insecurity. Look at the concept of the Virgin Mary — the mother of the most influential figure in history, yet portrayed as a virgin, defying the laws of nature. Why? Perhaps it was to maintain control, to create an ideal of purity so unattainable that women could be judged against it, ensuring they stayed “in line.”
Think about it: in times of war and unrest, like in ancient Palestine, men might have found it easier to respect women if they were seen as untouchable and pure. The myth of the Virgin served that purpose. Even today, the idea of a pregnant Mary is shocking in some places, like in Évora, Portugal, where the imagery is closer to pre-Christian fertility celebrations than to strict Catholic dogma. It suggests that cultural norms shaped religious stories to fit societal needs at the time.
The Song Remains the Same
These ideas were crafted by men who held power in the church, shaping narratives that controlled women’s bodies and choices. The concept of the Virgin was a tool, created to suit a time of conflict and uncertainty.
And yet, the ovum — the very start of human life — is powerful. It isn’t passive. It holds the potential of generations. But history has twisted this truth, glorifying the suffering of the Virgin while ignoring the real, lived experiences of women.
This mindset persists even today. When the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, it wasn’t just about law; it was about centuries-old views on women’s autonomy. Ideas from the 19th century about a woman’s role still influence modern policy, showing just how deeply these narratives are ingrained.
So, why was Muhsin Hendricks killed? Why do we still worship the pain of the Virgin? It could be as simple as guilt — the guilt of men whose sense of power is threatened by anyone who challenges traditional roles, be they gay, transgender, or women who refuse to conform.
If we really want to understand this, we need to look at women today. The world is full of powerful female figures who redefine what it means to be a woman.
Take Indira Gandhi, who once said, “To be liberated, woman must feel free to be herself, not in rivalry to man but in the context of her own capacity and her personality.” She was India’s Prime Minister, leading with strength and conviction.
Measure of Power on an Absolute Scale
Or look at Vigdís Finnbogadóttir of Iceland, who served as President for 16 years — the longest non-hereditary female head of state in history. She proved that women can lead with resilience and vision.
In science, Jennifer Doudna’s work with CRISPR gene editing is changing the future of medicine. She didn’t just break barriers; she redefined what’s possible in biochemistry and genetics.
In art, Tracey Emin uses her deeply personal experiences to challenge conventional ideas of femininity. Her work isn’t just about being a woman; it’s about being human, raw and unapologetic.
Even in fashion, women have defied expectations. During the Great Depression, young Latinas wore loose pants and oversized jackets, challenging gender norms. They took what little they had and made it powerful, showing us that innovation often comes from those on the margins.
We’ve seen so much change and endured so much loss throughout history. Isn’t it time to let go of outdated beliefs rooted in fear and guilt? Isn’t it time to stop defining women by standards set centuries ago?
It’s time to release outdated ideologies rooted in fear and guilt and recognize women as whole, autonomous beings. By safeguarding their rights and choices, we create a world where everyone can live authentically and without fear.
Courtesy: ChatGPT
