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emphasised that division is not the answer. We must as a society face womens issues with
solidarity. How can you expect real results with only one gender supporting the cause? Emma
Watson called for male leadership in addressing womens issues and furthermore expressed that
men are not the problem but rather the solution. What kind of example and precedent does this
set for other men interested and eager to speak out against female discrimination and injustice?
My values have been questioned but I cannot help but question the values of people who act in a
disrespectful manner before even taking the time to speak with me.
How can we as a society expect our men to stand up for women if they are mocked and
insulted for trying to help the cause? I wonder how many women in countries such as Iran, Somalia
or in North Korea would hurl insults at men who are willing to stand up for women. If anything they
would applaud this. Of course we need female leaders and female representation but if men are
unwilling to show leadership and support women in the challenges they face, how can we really
expect to address these issues holistically.
The reason for my resignation is not bowing to public pressure but rather a reflection of
my willingness to handle situations in an appropriate, mature and rational manner. Unfortunately I
feel my election has been more of a distraction to the real issues that need addressing right now.
The personal attacks have taken their toll on my family and me. The fact that I have been ridiculed
for trying to serve the women of this campus and our community more broadly is extremely
disappointing. I hope the new officer for this position is as committed to real and positive action as
I am. I know in my heart it is far more important to fight for what is right than to fight for the sake of
fighting.
I ask one sincere question of my critics: What has this all achieved? All I feel is saddened
at the lack of willingness to engage and find feasible solutions. My sincere hope is that at the very
least some good can come out of this through the awareness I have raised regarding the issues I
believe are critical to removing discrimination and giving women every opportunity that men have.
Ultimately I believe this will enhance our society. I challenge all those that have ridiculed
me and asked me to resign, what are you going to do now? How are you going to ensure as a
community we work to eradicate discrimination and injustice for women? This still takes place daily
around the world. Surely a starting point cannot be hating those who are wanting to do good.
James Ritchie
8/05/2015
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