I AM glad Aurat March happened and did exactly what was needed — started a debate. I have had men listen to me patiently as I explained my experiences of being groped. I have had the same gender make me uncomfortable as I sat next to them in a plane.

I have had male seniors tell me that I am more talented than my male colleagues. I have had men come to my office just to ‘look at’ the female ASP. I have had a father who told me I could be anything. I have had the same parent push me to cover my head for fear of other men.

I have had male friends tell me it is all right to hang out with guys. I have had friends tell me to wear ‘something appropriate’ on these hangouts. I have had men tell me equality is the right of every living being irrespective of gender. I have had men tell me it’s not.

Amna Baig

Rawalpindi

Published in Dawn, March 18th, 2019