Sometimes, we encounter situations that surpass any fiction and test our ability to act ethically and fairly. Recently, we have witnessed an alarming case in which teenage boys used artificial intelligence to digitally undress their classmates and share those images through WhatsApp and social networks.
Beyond the damage and shame caused to the girls and their families, the most worrying thing is some of the reactions we have witnessed in digital newspapers and social networks. Comments like "Why are they complaining if they then go out almost naked on the street?" make us reflect on who we blame for this situation, the teenagers who committed this evil or the girls for sharing photos on social networks?
This situation reminded me of a local news story I read a few days ago: the return of the Miss contest to the Tinasoria neighborhood in Arrecife. I have always believed that each person can make their own decisions in life and, of course, the candidates voluntarily participate in this contest. However, we must ask ourselves what responsibility we have as adults to protect our teenagers in a world where image and physical appearance have a disproportionate weight.
The news of the contest's return has generated hundreds of comments on social networks, and unfortunately, not all of them are positive. Phrases like "more than one looks like a ripe cheese", "are there local candidates or only Latinas?", or derogatory comments like "miss chonisauria" and "candidates for tyrannosaurs" reveal a critical and mocking tone.
At this point, I cannot help but think that if any of the candidates complained about these unfair criticisms, she would be blamed for having participated in the contest, her right to have her image respected would be questioned, and her body and appearance would be subject to judgment, criticism and mockery. The contestants, especially in the age of social networks, are exposed to relentless scrutiny and negative comments, which can be detrimental to their emotional health.
The constant competition and submission to being judged and compared physically can contribute to a negative self-image. Young women can develop insecurities about their appearance, and their self-esteem can depend largely on how others perceive them.
To build a more inclusive and respectful society, it is essential that we all take responsibility for our words and actions. We must be aware of the impact these can have on others and strive to promote respectful language and behavior.
Some problems require us to face them with courage and for the society in which we live to act and react responsibly. Changing these mentalities, ensuring the growth and emotional well-being of young women is a crucial task that we must address urgently.
Likewise, it is important that authorities and public institutions take measures to prevent and address cases of harassment, discrimination and gender violence. The implementation of sexual education and harassment prevention policies and programs can be fundamental to creating a safe and healthy environment for young women. Especially now, at a time when we have seen that there is still much to go in terms of gender equality, a time when social, media and political behaviors that we thought we had overcome have come to light.
