Every March 8th, International Women's Day reminds us of the progress made in gender equality, but also of the challenges that still persist. And as a teacher by profession and by vocation, I have always defended that one of the fundamental pillars to guarantee a truly egalitarian future free of sexist violence is education.
The education that children and adolescents receive in schools and institutes not only shapes their academic knowledge, but also defines their vision of the world, their values and their interpersonal relationships. Therefore, education in equality must be a priority in the classroom if we want to ensure a real and sustainable generational change.
Gender violence is not an isolated or random phenomenon; it is the result of sociocultural structures that perpetuate inequality. From an early age, gender stereotypes begin to mark differences between boys and girls, assigning them different roles and expectations. Girls are encouraged to be understanding and submissive, while boys are taught not to express emotions and to adopt dominant attitudes.
These beliefs, if not questioned and transformed, can lead to unequal power dynamics that lead to sexist violence in adolescence and adulthood. In this context, education is presented as a key tool to break this vicious circle.
Incorporating education in equality within the school curriculum does not simply mean adding theoretical content on feminism or human rights. A cross-cutting approach is needed that cuts across all subjects and transforms the dynamics of educational centers themselves. Egalitarian training implies reviewing teaching materials to eradicate gender bias, fostering critical thinking to question stereotypes and promoting relationships based on respect and equity. In addition, it is essential to train teaching staff so that they can address these issues adequately and effectively.
The experiences of countries that have opted for education in equality show that this approach has a positive impact, not only on the eradication of sexist violence, but also on the construction of more just and peaceful societies.
An educational system that promotes equal opportunities, mutual respect and the elimination of prejudice allows each student, regardless of their gender, to develop fully without limitations imposed by archaic social norms.
March 8 should be a reminder that the fight for gender equality does not end with laws and speeches, but requires a constant commitment to the education of new generations. If we want a future free of sexist violence, we must start in the classroom. Only in this way will we be able to train citizens with critical awareness, capable of building a truly equitable and inclusive society.
Lucía Olga Tejera, PSOE regional deputy of Lanzarote.
