By: Meryum Hayat
Living in a society where we are surrounded by conflicting social norms, it is not difficult to believe that those opinions, which are exhibited by sources that are considered as authentic and passably superior, easily overpower those which come from relatively questionable sources. This generously contributes to the reason why the lower and middle classes in the Pakistani society have a tough time voicing their belief and having their beliefs heard. Ergo, if different opinions are not taken into account, how can the ‘Pakistani Dream’ be rightly achieved?
The ‘Pakistani Dream’ can be considered as an assemblage of specifically equal rights, freedom of education and freedom of religion. It is ostensibly factual that the ‘Pakistani Dream’ is backed up by utopian concepts of equality and justice, similar to the ‘American Dream’, but the implementation of this vision in a country where conflicting and inconsistent views envelope, it is a challenging thing to do.
From the youth’s standpoint, this dream provides a channel through which we can demonstrate our judgment about the different forms of injustices surrounding us along with their impact on us, whether direct or indirect. These can include issues like the confinement of education to only one gender, especially in rural areas . Another aspect that we can talk about is the limitation of facilities and opportunities for students who want to partake in vital activities that can later aid them in life. Going to school while being contaminated by the overwhelming fear of various threats is not exactly the ideal condition in which one should be receiving education. The government and military being in a constant conflict with the opposing forces is only shedding light on the birth of different threats in Pakistan.
It is no doubt that changing the deep-rooted norms of our society is a challenging issue. A place with a culture so rich, it is difficult to change the extremist view because of probable opposition. Any rebellious movement is looked down upon and shunned. The dream that we aim to achieve right now includes us contributing in some sort of rebellious action which can possibly lead to dire consequences due to the strong inevitable opposition. So when will we be able to achieve our dream?
Meryum is a SYLC Student Ambassador. She is currently doing her A’ Levels from LGS 55Main.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the writer and may not necessarily reflect those of the SEPLAA Young Leaders’ Club.