Emma Watson speech at United Nations - HeForShe IMPACT 10x10x10 University Parity Report (20/09/16)

Summary

The speaker expresses gratitude for the support of various organizations and emphasizes the importance of gender equality in higher education. They reflect on their personal university experience, highlighting how universities shape individuals' perspectives and values. The speaker challenges the persistence of gender biases and violence within academic environments, advocating for universities to foster respect, equality, and safety. They call for a societal shift where students expect true equality, and universities act as catalysts for change. The speaker also introduces a report on the progress made by 10 impact champions in advancing these causes.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker thanks Arena and Nesco for their support in promoting gender equality.
• 😀 The commitment to gender equality is a priority for men from around the world, including university leaders.
• 😀 The speaker reflects on their personal university experience, feeling fortunate to have studied at Brown University.
• 😀 Gender inequality in leadership positions within universities remains a challenge in many parts of the world.
• 😀 Universities should encourage women to lead and empower them to take on leadership roles like leading seminars.
• 😀 The speaker highlights the importance of university experiences in shaping students' perceptions of gender equality and leadership.
• 😀 The speaker calls for universities to challenge harmful stereotypes and double standards regarding gender roles.
• 😀 University environments must demonstrate that the safety of women, minorities, and vulnerable individuals is a right, not a privilege.
• 😀 A university should be a place of refuge, taking strong action against all forms of violence, including sexual violence.
• 😀 The speaker advocates for students to graduate with the belief in striving for a society of true equality, expecting fairness in every aspect of life.
• 😀 The progress made by the 10 impact champions is celebrated, and their work is expected to inspire change at universities and schools worldwide.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the speech?

The main topic of the speech is gender equality in universities, focusing on the importance of equal respect, leadership, and safety for women and minorities in educational institutions.

How does the speaker describe their personal experience with university?

The speaker describes their university experience as transformative, having graduated from Brown University, where they felt a sense of belonging and community, which influenced their personal and professional life.

What issue does the speaker highlight regarding women in leadership roles at universities?

The speaker highlights the issue of women not being encouraged or allowed to lead in academic settings, pointing out that some universities still convey the message that women should not be in leadership roles, such as leading seminars.

What does the speaker mean by 'double standards' in universities?

The speaker refers to double standards in universities as the unequal treatment and expectations placed on women, particularly when it comes to leadership opportunities and respect in academic settings.

Why does the speaker emphasize the importance of safety for women and minorities in universities?

The speaker stresses that safety is a fundamental right and that universities must take action to ensure the protection of women, minorities, and vulnerable individuals, recognizing that a violation of one person's safety affects everyone.

What role does the speaker believe universities can play in societal change?

The speaker believes universities have the power to be a vital catalyst for societal change by fostering an environment of equality and respect, shaping students' expectations for a more equal society.

What does the speaker mean by 'students should leave university believing in striving for true equality'?

The speaker suggests that students should graduate from university with the expectation of striving for equality in society, influenced by the values and experiences they gain during their education.

What message does the speaker convey about sexual violence on university campuses?

The speaker emphasizes that sexual violence should be recognized as a serious form of violence and that universities need to take a clear stand against it, ensuring that the safety of all students is prioritized.

What is the significance of the 'impact champions' mentioned in the speech?

The 'impact champions' are individuals or groups that have committed to promoting gender equality and safety in universities. Their work is seen as an inspiration to students and universities worldwide to strive for better outcomes in equality and respect.

How does the speaker conclude the speech?

The speaker concludes the speech by introducing a report on the progress of the 'impact champions' and expressing eagerness to hear about the next steps in promoting gender equality and safety in universities.