by Jessica Akinyi
Yes, No, Maybe, I don't know. Can you repeat the question?
Ladies!!! Word on the street is that we are to blame for being victims of femicide. This mostly stems from the thinking that our No to romantic pursuits, sexual advances, and other favours most often means Yes. Where have we gone wrong? An individual's personal space and the set boundaries should be respected without questions or pressure.
Human rights activists have pointed out that many femicide incidences have emanated from refusal to accept the victims' NO, therefore, it is our responsibility to teach our children and youths the importance of respecting other people's wishes no matter the circumstance.
No means "No."
No other translation or definition.
It should be met with an "okay",
Not an opposition.
No other argument
Should ever be given.
No means "No."
Not an invitation to "try".
I don't get why,
You would try to convince
Someone otherwise.
No means "No",
Our bodies are our own.
For a man to simply think he can,
Is an injustice that has only grown.
No means "No",
In its truest form.
We're taught right from wrong,
From the moment we are born.
What along the way,
Changes what people know?
Yes means yes,
And no means NO.
This poem by RacinThePen emphasizes the importance of empowering oneself to be affirmative when saying No. There should be no room for maybe to avoid ambiguity and misinterpretations. It also highlights that men should not feel entitled to women's bodies.
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