The Standard Group Plc is a multi-media organization with investments in media platforms spanning newspaper print
operations, television, radio broadcasting, digital and online services. The Standard Group is recognized as a
leading multi-media house in Kenya with a key influence in matters of national and international interest.
It’s no secret that boys and girls are not brought up the same way. Halle Berry noticed this, particularly how young boys are taught to think of themselves as superior to girls, as she raised son Maceo Martinez.
In a virtual panel for the Sundance Festival titled "Women Breaking Barriers: An Industry Shift", the Oscar-winning star revealed that she is teaching her son to challenge societal patriarchal norms.
“I have a 7-year-old son, and I have realized what my job is in raising him,” she said. “If we want to have a future that's different, that is where it starts.”
The 54-year-old mother of two was joined by Elisabeth Sereda, Silvia Bizio, Robin Wright, Andra Day, Sia and Zendaya, all who have films at the Sundance Festival.
She went on to explain that she believes that by having open conversations, as well as starting at an early age, she can break down issues of sexism.
While addressing Wright, Berry said, "You made me think of how many conversations I've had with him, say, since he's turned 5 years old, about the differences in boys and girls, and I see how he's taught to feel like he's superior, at 5, than girls are."
Through their talks, Berry admitted to helping her son get a new perspective on gender stereotypes.
"I've had to really break that down for him and give him a new perspective, and challenge those thoughts and ask him to identify where that comes from, and if he believes that or not and challenge what he's subconsciously getting from somewhere.”
And she uses simple questions that evoke deep thought, calling out stereotypical beliefs.
“I keep challenging him all the time, like 'Well, why is that a 'girl colour?' "
Berry shares son Maceo, 7, with ex-husband Oliver Martinez. She is also mother to 12-year-old Nahla Ariela whom she shares with ex Gabriel Aubry.
She revealed that she has already started seeing a change in how her son thinks.
“I can tell that because we’re having the conversation, he is going to grow as a deep thinker on the subject. He is going to be determined not to just accept it.”
join