More than an umbrella: Drenched by stereotypes – Francisca Nanaba Amoako writes 

It was a brief engagement but ended with a shock revelation.Yesterday, after having an exhausting day, I decided to have a conversation with a male friend to calm my nerves.

We centered our discussion on climate change. Many Ghanaians can attest to the unpredictable weather patterns experienced in May, particularly the sudden heavy rains that submerged several parts of the country.

These changing weather conditions have made daily life increasingly uncertain. Stepping out and not carrying a rain coat or an umbrella can leave one stranded in an unexpected downpour. And if God doesn’t intervene, you won’t be alive to tell your predicament.

My friend said “I was drenched by the rain on my way to class this morning. Although, I have an umbrella, I couldn’t take it along. Men are not to use umbrellas”.

His statement caught me by surprise. Why should an umbrella designed to protect people from rain and sun be associated with a particular gender? Why should men conform to societal expectations even when they are in discomfort?

His remarks introduces the broader discussion on gender roles and expectations.

In Ghana and many parts of the world, men are expected to be providers and breadwinners.

They have been ascribed roles of not opening up or calling for help when they are drowning.

Emotions are hidden, and in the case where a man speaks up, he is referred to as a “weakling”.

Consequently, the concept of the “real man” is becoming increasingly common in this contemporary society. A man who is unable to provide for his family, unemployed, shows emotions, vulnerable and indulges in activities associated with women are often made a mocking stone.

You are called all sort of names if you assist your partner with chores. Additionally, when a man is unable to pay the bill on a dinner date, he is criticized.

The constant definition of masculinity by rigid standards reinforces stereotypes and put unnecessary pressure on men to conform to societal expectations.

Nonetheless, these expectations have become a norm in men’s daily lives, such that they go unnoticed. Awareness creation is prudent in tackling gendered expectations labeled on men. Equality is about standing up for both gender and not sidelining one.

The belief that men should not use umbrellas may seem trivial, but it reflects a deeper discourse on gender roles societal expectations.

At the end of the conversation, my friend was persuaded by the knowledge imparted to him. Now, he has no stereotypical mindset. He will use an umbrella whenever necessary without the fear of mocked. I encouraged him to share this perspective with others.

If we are truly advocating for gender equality, men should be seen and heard. If women are breaking barriers, then men can, too.

Writer: Francisca Nanaba Amoako
Email: franciscananaba2@gmail.com.