Have you ever spoken up when you saw something going on that was wrong? Were you scared? What ended up happening?

From a very young age, I was quick to recognize gendered stereotypes and expectations. There was one instance I remember, potentially the first time I verbalized it-I couldn’t have been more than 8 years old. My father had informed me that I was not able to go with him and my younger brother to watch a high school football game because I had to stay home and clean with my mom. I remember not wanting to go to the football game, but that I would go if it meant that I didn’t have to just stay home cleaning up a mess that was not (for the most part) mine. I remember pushing back and asking how that was fair to me or Mom. I was terrified to go against what my father said as it didn’t end well for me often. I do not remember what he said, but I know I ended up staying home and cleaning. What he said or did is not important. My young mind had already internalized that that was how I was expected to act. I now realize I ended up spending the next decade putting off all kinds of hobbies, interests, and more to make sure the house was clean. And for what? A clean house never stays clean, and if it does? You’re not living in it. I’m pursuing my passions anyway. The mess isn’t going anywhere, but my time is.