When was the last time you saw something unfair but decided not to act because it felt too big to fix? Maybe it was a boy being teased for playing with dolls or a woman being interrupted for the 20th time in a meeting. We’ve all been there—frozen by the overwhelming idea of changing “the system.” But what if I told you that creating a more equal world doesn’t require you to move mountains? All it takes is small, consistent actions over time.
Welcome to the “100 Days to Equality” challenge: your blueprint for creating a fairer world, one day at a time. Think of it as a journey of self-discovery, where every day brings an opportunity to practice equality, break stereotypes, and inspire others. And guess what? It’s as simple as starting right where you are—with the tools and people already in your life.
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Day 1: Reflect on Your Biases
Before we change the world, let’s take a look in the mirror. No one likes to admit they have biases, but newsflash: we all do. From assuming women are better caregivers to thinking men are natural leaders, biases are sneaky little gremlins that lurk in our subconscious.
Start today by writing down some common stereotypes you’ve believed, even unintentionally. (It’s okay, no one’s judging—this is a safe space.) Awareness is the first step to change. And hey, don’t forget to laugh at yourself when you catch a particularly absurd one.
Day 10: Share the Mental LoadSee AlsoNever Lose Your whitening toothpaste Again – GHG Sudan – جي إتش جي السودان
Picture this: you’re at home, and somehow it’s always your wife, mom, or sister who remembers to buy toothpaste, schedule doctor’s appointments, or keep track of birthdays. Sound familiar? That invisible labor—organizing and managing—is what we call the “mental load,” and it often falls disproportionately on women.
Break the cycle by stepping up. Offer to plan meals for the week or handle the family calendar. Spoiler alert: equality isn’t just about policies; it’s about toothpaste too.
Day 25: Support Girls in STEM
Remember the time someone told you math wasn’t your thing? Now imagine hearing that every day because of your gender. Girls in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) face this all the time.
Be an ally by encouraging the girls in your life to dream big. Got a niece who loves Legos? Gift her a robotics kit. Know a student who’s unsure about pursuing engineering? Share stories of inspiring women like Kalpana Chawla or Ada Lovelace.
Day 30: Redefine “Manly”
Raise your hand if you’ve ever told a boy to “man up” or “stop crying.” Society’s obsession with tough, stoic men has robbed countless individuals of emotional freedom.
Today, flip the script. Tell the men in your life it’s okay to feel, cry, and ask for help. And if you’re a guy, take this as your cue to be unapologetically vulnerable. Want bonus points? Watch a rom-com and shed a tear without shame—it’s liberating.
Day 45: Speak Up in Meetings
No, not for yourself—for the person who keeps getting talked over. Studies show that women are more likely to be interrupted or ignored in meetings.
Next time you see this happening, say something like, “I’d like to hear more of what Priya was saying,” or “Let’s circle back to Meera’s idea.” Simple, right? Yet so powerful.
Day 60: Be a Role Model
Equality isn’t a solo sport—it’s a relay race. The baton? Your actions. Children learn what they see, not what you tell them.
Whether it’s a dad cooking dinner or a mom fixing the sink, show kids that roles aren’t determined by gender. Better yet, let them participate. Teach your son to sew and your daughter to change a tire.
Day 70: Change Your Media Diet
How many movies have you watched where the male hero saves the day while the female character just looks pretty? Media shapes our worldview, so let’s choose content that reflects equality.
Watch shows with diverse, empowered characters. Follow social media accounts that challenge stereotypes. And if you’re feeling bold, call out the next Bollywood film that can’t pass the Bechdel Test.
Day 85: Advocate for Equal Pay
Ah, the pay gap—a topic that’s as uncomfortable as it is important. Women still earn less than men for the same work, and if that doesn’t outrage you, check your pulse.
At work, champion transparency in salaries. If you’re in a position of influence, advocate for policies that ensure pay equity. And if you’re an employee, support colleagues who might be fighting for what they deserve.
Day 95: Rethink Compliments
“You’re so strong—for a girl.” “He’s such a great dad—he actually helps with the kids!” Sound familiar? These backhanded compliments reinforce stereotypes, even if unintentionally.
Today, challenge yourself to give compliments without qualifiers. Say, “You’re an amazing leader,” instead of “You’re great—for a woman.” It’s a small tweak that makes a big difference.
Day 100: Celebrate Progress and Plan for More
Congratulations, you’ve made it! Over the last 100 days, you’ve taken steps big and small to champion gender justice. But here’s the thing: equality isn’t a destination; it’s a lifelong journey.
Mark the occasion by celebrating your wins. Maybe you’ve inspired a friend, had tough conversations, or even changed a policy at work. Whatever it is, take a moment to feel proud—and then plan your next steps.
Because the truth is, a better world doesn’t happen overnight. It happens day by day, action by action, person by person. And now, thanks to you, we’re 100 days closer.
A Few Parting Words
Equality isn’t just about fairness; it’s about unlocking the full potential of humanity. Imagine a world where everyone—regardless of gender—feels free to pursue their dreams, express their emotions, and share responsibilities. Sounds pretty great, right?
So, let’s make that world a reality. Starting today. One small act at a time. And who knows? By next New Year’s, you might just find yourself surrounded by a community that’s stronger, kinder, and more equal—thanks to you.
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