'Tis the season for protesting. The words and images we use everyday, whether in daily conversations or in the media reflect on us, and the kind of society we are. Currently, every newspaper and TV news channel is carrying the story of the gang rape in Delhi, and the public protests following it. Whenever there is a story on rape, why do the papers carry illustrations of women bent over, holding their heads, sad, weakened, cowed down, and afraid? Yes, we all know what a national shame it is. Is there a need to reinforce the shame the woman has gone through with such images?
Can we use a better word than victim? Can there be a word that is more empathetic, and that does not marginalize the person.
Consider the fact that we still have lathi-charge, a term and practice that is a relic of the Raj. What's in a name, one might ask? Obviously, a considerable amount of meaning and identity gets invested in names, even though they are just words. Otherwise, why have we changed the names of many Indian cities, roads, airports, museums and landmarks? We have tried to divest ourselves of the British identity, but we have still faithfully clung to lathi-charge.
A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all. Since the ancient Mayans got their calendar a little wonky (thankfully), we will see you all in the New Year! Let's hope 2013 sees more peace, joy, compassion, good health, progressive thinking and creativity.
Can we use a better word than victim? Can there be a word that is more empathetic, and that does not marginalize the person.
Consider the fact that we still have lathi-charge, a term and practice that is a relic of the Raj. What's in a name, one might ask? Obviously, a considerable amount of meaning and identity gets invested in names, even though they are just words. Otherwise, why have we changed the names of many Indian cities, roads, airports, museums and landmarks? We have tried to divest ourselves of the British identity, but we have still faithfully clung to lathi-charge.
A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all. Since the ancient Mayans got their calendar a little wonky (thankfully), we will see you all in the New Year! Let's hope 2013 sees more peace, joy, compassion, good health, progressive thinking and creativity.
