By Sheila Wafula
Femicide, the killing of women because of their gender, is a distressing reality that continues to plague societies worldwide. Beyond the grim statistics, there lies a deeper issue of how this violence is portrayed and discussed in the media. The lens through which femicide is depicted in news coverage, films, TV shows, radio stations, and social media platforms holds significant sway over public perception, often perpetuating harmful stereotypes and contributing to victim blaming.
Our media houses have continuously fallen into the trap of sensationalization, focusing more on the graphic details of the crimes rather than its underlying causes and its societal implications. They reduce this complex social issue to mere entertainment or shock value. This approach not only fails to address the root causes of femicide but also risks further victimization of the women affected and their families.
We cannot overlook the aspect of victim blaming, where victims of femicide are portrayed as somehow responsible for their own deaths. This dangerous narrative reinforces harmful stereotypes about women's behavior and choices, deflecting attention away from the perpetrators. By focusing on aspects such as a victim's clothing, lifestyle, or relationships, the media inadvertently perpetuates the myth that women are to blame for the violence inflicted upon them.
Furthermore, media representation of femicide often fails to reflect the diversity of victims and their experiences. Women from marginalized communities, and those with disabilities among other vulnerable groups, are proportionately affected by femicide, yet their stories are frequently overlooked. This misrepresentation hinders efforts to address the intersecting forms of oppression that contribute to femicide.
Addressing the harmful impact of media representation on femicide requires a multifaceted approach. As media professionals, we must strive for responsible and ethical reporting, prioritizing accuracy, sensitivity, and a commitment to challenging entrenched stereotypes. We must be the mirror in our society. Beyond holding media accountable, empowering marginalized voices and survivors of femicide is essential in reshaping the narrative surrounding gender-based violence. Platforms such as social media offer spaces for grassroots activism, advocacy, and survivor-centered storytelling, enabling communities to challenge harmful narratives and demand justice and accountability.
The media has the power to raise awareness, foster empathy and drive meaningful social change. It is time for us to restore the broken mirror through which femicide is reflected and amplify the voices of survivors, advocates and communities working tirelessly to end gender-based violence once and for all.
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