Does our school, which advocates so heavily for equality, give one gender some benefits? Does the patriarchy that is still observed in most societies still exist in such a woke, privileged school? 

There is no definite answer to this fairly controversial topic. However, there are multiple perspectives that can be considered. A consensus among both boys and girls is that there isn’t a significant equality gap between Woodstock students. Everyone is treated with a basic degree of respect and dignity, regardless of gender. Despite this, there are instances and customs that demonstrate brief moments of inequality towards either side.

A few points were brought up in support of the boys having a tougher time. For example, some guys in Hostel feel that they have stricter dorm parents to some extent. Rules like lights out, study hall and appliances timings appear to be enforced more strictly than in the girls dorm. The guys in 10th and 11th aren’t even allowed to use basic necessities like the washroom after lights out! 

Some students argue that the dress code is enforced unequally,

On the other hand, we can definitely see examples of the girls having a tougher time, such as how girls have smaller rooms, and some students argue that the dress code is enforced unequally, One of the biggest issues that was brought up was safety. Some men can provoke feelings of uneasiness to some of the girls. For instance, some have been catcalled outside school which is something that the boys usually don’t have to experience. Along with this there are which is something less commonly experienced by the boys. However, the people interviewed have said that the situation has gotten relatively better than what it was in the past.

In the end, it’s impossible for one side to fully understand the other’s experience and any conclusion that’s reached would be based on potentially wrong assumptions or information. However, all things put together, all interviewees shared the sentiment that equality is observed in Woodstock. Of course, people are always free to form their own opinions on who they believe has it worse at a school with all the freedom Woodstock offers. There will always be complaints about topics regarding equality, small or major, but as for now, this question has no objective answer.

Yash Kejriwal, co-editor of The Woodstocker

Edited by Aryaman.