Kristof gave a great lecture that basically summarized key points and issues from his book, Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide. Kristof spoke about these issues by presenting real stories that connected to each issue, whether it was maternal health (he spoke about obstetric fistulas) or sex trafficking/slavery (brothels). My favorite part of the event was during the end of the lecture when the audiences had a chance to ask Kristof questions that things got interesting. Kristof was asked about his controversial stance on Female Genital Mutilations (FGM) in terms of it being a cultural practice. Kristof gave a great answer, one that changed my mind on the topic, about how there should always be a line in terms of human behavior even when it is related to culture. Cultural relativism is important just as boundaries are important when it comes to cultural practices that are gruesome and impinge on an individuals human rights. And we all are aware that FGM violates human rights in multiple ways. A great example Kristof brought up was on the practice of feet bounding in China and how western influences led China to discard this unhealthy, gender discriminating practice. Kristof believes that FGM should follow suit as well.
Lastly Kristof wanted to spread the message to college students to get out of their comfort zone. He urged students to seize opportunities to travel abroad or even help out locally in places that you may never have thought of because by doing this you learn things on a whole new level. I couldn't agree more!
P.S
And yes, I most definitely got my book signed! (I had Kristof sign it for my younger sister - it is for her when she is ready to read it) :]
I recorded the lecture and it is available for listening below.
Hi Dechen, I was also moved by Kristof's answer to the FGM question. Kristof talked about empowering women and I think that the women in the countries where FGM is occurring can begin to become empowered and see a change for the better!
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed the lecture as well and only wish that he would have talked longer!
Dechen & Sharon-
ReplyDeleteI'm thrilled that you were able to attend this event! I teach late Mondays and couldn't go, so Dechen, your post is so appreciated and offers a nice glimpse of Kristof's talk.
If you'd like to drop by Global Health the day we talk about FGM and share your thoughts, you're more than welcome! :-) (Just what you both wanted, more global health!!).