Men can be better allies in the following ways:

1. Being better listeners: Before attempting to problem solve from the outset, men should lend an open-minded, empathetic and receptive ear to those raising their voices so that they can understand each other’s issues. This opens one’s mind to the inherent privileges they were holding, and allows them to reflect on various issues deeply.
2. Making small changes: In a country like India where unequal distributions of labour and power are often latent, small changes go a long way. For example, doing a share of housework with wives/mothers as a member of the household, not a helper. Other ways may be:
   • When noticing snide remarks and misogynistic attitudes from other men, immediately countering them outright.
   • Uplifting the women around them in daily life, not only in feminist circles but others as well.
3. Engaging in intelligent discourse: Educating oneself about the various issues plaguing not only women but other minorities, and engaging in discussions with feminists who are actively working to better society. Through intelligent discourse, it becomes apparent that feminism is not “man-hating” as some say, but a movement against patriarchy, the removal of which benefits men also.
4. Not viewing women as ‘other’: Women and men are indeed both from earth, and although differences exist, women are capable of everything men are capable of. Therefore, understand that although certain conditions must be altered for both the genders to function optimally, it is must for a balanced society.