Our Reader, Jahnavi Pandya, has allowed us to use this poem.
Jahnavi: I had written this a while ago, to support the ‘Do You See Me Movement’ started by my friend Mujer, in California!
I am a woman.
I don’t need to stand against a guy,
To prove that even I can stand up for myself, and not be shy.
I don’t need anyone’s permission,
To have my dreams, work on my mission.
I am not equal to men,
And I don’t find the need to be!
Because I know I’m different,
And which world would go without a woman, without me?
No matter what the world says,
I know I can carry on, in my own ways!
I have the ability to love and care,
To nurture, and to be there.
I know what I am worth,
& it is me, who can give birth.
I don’t need to ask the world for a place,
Because I know, without my contribution, there would be no human race.
I am unique, I have my own position,
I don’t need to beg for respect and recognition.
I’m happy to be me,
Even if you cannot appreciate my quality!
And I will still care, no matter what I get!
With all my heart, I will still nurture,
Dedicate my life, for a better future!
Being a woman,
In itself shows that I am strong,
I don’t need to prove it, through any power, any expression, or any song!
I am a woman, and I deserve to be respected,
To be treated as human, as my son/brother/husband is!
– Jahnavi Pandya
Thank you for doing this work
@doyouseememovement