The Equal Community Foundation (ECF) continues its mission to empower boys in India to challenge gender norms and promote respect and equality. Established in 2009, ECF’s “Action for Equality” programme has engaged over 12,599 boys, fostering a culture of consent and non-violence. Recent initiatives include the #ConsentSeRishta campaign, launched in October 2024, aimed at raising awareness around sexual health. Co-founder Rujuta Teredesai emphasizes the critical need for boys to be allies in achieving gender equity.
Innovative Approaches to Gender Equality
ECF’s “Action for Equality” programme runs for 60 weeks, equipping boys aged 13-17 with knowledge and skills to advocate for gender equality. Participants like Mehboob, aged 16, reflect on how sessions have reshaped their understanding of societal norms. The recently initiated #ConsentSeRishta campaign further underscores ECF’s commitment to addressing sexual health and consent issues among youth, aligning with their broader goal of creating gender-equitable communities.
Addressing the Gender Violence Epidemic
With approximately 230 million boys under 18 in India, ECF targets the root causes of gender-based violence by transforming attitudes towards women. Research indicates that fewer than 5% of organisations focus on educating boys about gender equality. ECF aims to fill this gap through collaborative efforts and partnerships, sharing resources with other civil society organisations to amplify their impact nationwide.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The Equal Community Foundation’s proactive approach in engaging boys as allies in the fight for gender equality aligns with The Logical Indian’s values of empathy and constructive dialogue. By addressing toxic masculinity and promoting positive behaviours, we can foster a more inclusive society. What additional measures can we take to ensure that future generations uphold principles of respect and equality?
