Freedom of Speech

Freedom of speech means speaking with absolute freedom of which one wants to express his opinions without censorship. Not everything can be spoken in public as countries and states have restrictions on the content of the speech and limit them mostly to a fair speech. But the most discriminating thing would be that these restrictions are severe and intense upon the weaker sections of the society and are worse for vulnerable genders like women. These restrictions for women can come in the names of their husbands and for girls from their fathers or mothers.

Women being Neglected

In many Islam nations women are not part of political scenario and are often locked behind doors. The right freedom of speech is closely related many other rights such as freedom of expressions, right to privacy and freedom of the press. Freedom of expression and speech will not only mean speaking but advocating, gathering information, protests and when other rights are violated. When it comes to violation of gender related issues often we find that justice is not been delivered even in the most westernized nations and still atrocities continue to happen.

Children’s rights not Realized

Freedom of speech in this aspect is still dream come true for most of the fair members of the society. Sometimes ago there were agitations from the school going children and their opinion was that their rights are denied at home and school through parents and teachers and that their opinions should be listened and demands fulfilled. This issue cannot be taken lightly for most of the decision making process concerning children happen without them.  From what dress to wear, school to study and which food to eat all comes from the part of parents but children have their wishes and aspirations as well which have to be respected.

Still a dream comes True

Likewise women, trans-genders, homosexuals all have their regrets regarding this right to freedom of speech. For many this right is still not within the reach and are continued to be eluded. The international human rights and United Nations have established constitutions clearly indicating the rights of everyone like for refugees, indigenous, women, and children. Even they have numerous articles in a constitution which defend and protect the rights of people with physical and mental disabilities.

While we speak of equality, empowerment and rights often leave out the basics and start from the middle. In gender studies we need to be aware that still people with different race, community, regions, religion and language in this world somewhere are being denied of their rights.

Questions:

• What is freedom of speech?
• What is its relevance to gender studies?