Dare to Speak Up

I like the way the current generation of youths are described in the part of Nigeria, where I live. They say they are the “soro-soke” generation. Soro-soke in the Yoruba language of West Africa means “speak up.” In a clime where timidity, naivety, respect, and pride are often switched or bear a thin line, a soro-soke person is perceived as being rebellious. So, every human being loves to be heard, including children, huh?

                                                                     ------------------------------------

Then, why should women only be seen and not heard in many parts of the world, especially in emerging economies?

                                                                  --------------------------------------

We ought to be free to air our opinion where and when it matters, isn’t it? Taking action is taking it further, rather than paying lip service alone, so let’s simply go for it!

Recently, I attended a wedding thanksgiving service. The respected and renowned guest minister, admonishing the new couple, recalled how he had to intervene in an instance where a man teamed up with his mother against his wife, endorsing that such an action is possible and should be expected, but it was the duty of the wife to accept the situation in submission, humility, and silence. Really? It isn’t a time to fight either, but a time not be shoved down the drain like trash, making known what we believe till our story makes history, globally.

Well… the world had better gird its loins. This is not about wrestling power at all. It is about being fearfully and wonderfully made and doing all things through Him that strengthens us, says the holy book of Christians, the Bible. Women would neither be silenced, nor take the back seat.

                                                        --------------------------------------------------------

Hence, I simply envision a world where my view matters as much as yours, and we collaborate to bring out the best in us.

                                                        ---------------------------------------------------------

For sure, “our voices belong to the forefront in a post-pandemic world.” The countdown has since begun!

This piece was first published on emi.alawode.net