"Is Your Best Friend Abused?" – A Discussion by Buddhadeb Dasgupta Memorial Trust on Abuse Awareness - GetBengal story
“Rabeya ki Ruksana, theek to mane pode na… meyera eke eke phool hoye jaaye…” This iconic 90s song spoke about the trafficking of young girls, often leading to exploitation and abuse. However, this problem extends far beyond just girls. Social biases, cruelty, harassment, and bullying can happen to anyone, irrespective of their gender or age. These are harsh realities that we must confront and address in our society.
It’s important to understand the difference between ‘sex’ and ‘gender.’ While ‘sex’ refers to the biological identity a child is born with, ‘gender’ refers to how an individual perceives themselves internally, and how they choose to express this identity to the world. Sadly, many people remain unaware of this distinction, and even worse, ignore its significance. This ignorance leads to marginalization, discrimination, and widespread injustice in the way individuals are treated based on their gender.
We live in a society where students aren’t safe within educational institutions, and children often face harm from those closest to them, including relatives. Even parents may turn their backs on their children if their mental gender identity doesn’t match their physical appearance. This is a heartbreaking reality that requires immediate action. What’s needed most is for people to speak up and raise their voices against such injustice. Silence only allows suffering to continue. Individuals need to express their feelings openly, become more aware of their own needs, and help others understand the same. No one should suffer in silence or feel isolated.
Also read : Swami Vivekananda as a Women Activist
We must stand together, supporting one another and maintaining our humanity. By fostering friendships, promoting equality, and embracing empathy, we can create a society where everyone feels safe and valued. It’s our collective responsibility to build a world that is kinder, more compassionate, and where people understand and share each other's pain.
On the occasion of Human Rights Day, December 10th, the Buddhadeb Dasgupta Memorial Trust, in collaboration with the U.S. Consulate General Kolkata, is organizing a special program and workshop at the American Center, Kolkata, titled “Is Your Best Friend Abused?” Buddhadeb Dasgupta’s films and poetry have always advocated for equality and highlighted the struggles of marginalized people. His works resonate with the voices of the oppressed, and this program is an important step in continuing that conversation.
Sohini Dasgupta, the founder of the Trust and Dasgupta’s partner, says that the program will focus on how individuals can recognize and resist abuse, rather than avoid confronting it. Experts will also discuss the complexities of the body, mind, and relationships, providing a deeper understanding of these critical issues. Additionally, a powerful documentary will be shown to further emphasize the importance of speaking out and addressing abuse in all its forms.
People taking part in the discussion include Dr. Ishani Roy, Founder & CEO of Serein Inc.; Mrinalini Majumdar, Legal Counsel; Shatabhisha Chatterjee, Clinical Psychologist; Sohini Chakraborty, Sociologist and Dance Activist; and Anuttama Banerjee, Psychologist, Poet, and Public Health Advocate. Participation is open through registration.
