Growing up i developed a keen interest in things like politics, sports and music largely as result of my dad’s interest in them as well and his encouragement for me to do so, so he could have someone he could discuss issues and share ideas with.I learnt quickly enough as I grew older that boys,and later,men, felt awkward and very uncomfortable when I join in discussions related to these interests; they either become quiet and move away or they try to steer the conversation towards more ” feminine” topics like fashion, babies,things of which I had no interest or knowledge of, Initially I considered such attitudes patronizing or ignorant, and occasionally demeaning. Sadly, nothing as changed.
