LANGUAGE AS A TOOL OF VIOLENCE AND REDEMPTION - Deborah Breda - ETHICA SOCIETAS-Rivista di scienze umane e sociali

Patriarchal culture kills even through language: reflections on the statements of Silvia Salis

Abstract: The role of language and media in shaping or countering gender-based violence, inspired by the recent statements of the Mayor of Genoa, Silvia Salis, who denounced the widespread sexist language on social media and emphasized the urgency of comprehensive emotional and sexual education. Through a critical analysis of media language, the text highlights how words and representations contribute to normalizing stereotypes and discrimination, but also how they can become instruments of cultural change. The dual responsibility of the media is underscored: on one hand, in perpetuating patriarchal models, and on the other, in promoting a culture of respect and equality. Equally central is the role of education, tasked with forming new generations that are aware and responsible. Overcoming gender-based violence requires a shared linguistic and cultural revolution, where words and narratives become vehicles of emancipation and equality.

Keywords: #GenderViolence #GenderEquality #SexistLanguage #ResponsibleMedia #CultureOfRespect #EmotionalEducation #SexEducation #SilviaSalis #EthicalCommunication #GenderStereotypes #Discrimination #CulturalChange #RoleOfMedia #EducationAndTraining #WomenRights #WordsMatter #CivilSociety #SocialAwareness #DeborahBreda #EthicaSocietas #ScientificJournal #EthicaSocietasJournal #AcademicResearch #EthicaSocietasSupli

Silvia Salis (Genoa, September 17, 1985) is an Italian sports executive and politician, known for her commitment to promoting gender equality and combating sexist language in institutions and the media. A former Olympic hammer throw athlete, she has held prominent roles within the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI) and, since May 26, 2025, serves as the Mayor of Genoa and of the Metropolitan City of the same name.

versione italiana

Introduction

November is the month dedicated to global awareness against gender-based violence, culminating on November 25 with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, recognized by the United Nations. This moment of reflection and mobilization serves to draw public attention to a phenomenon that continues to affect millions of women worldwide. However, as underlined by the Mayor of Genoa, Silvia Salis, who has recently denounced sexist insults and stressed the need for comprehensive sexual and emotional education, the fight against gender-based violence must not be confined to November. Commitment must be constant and daily, engaging the media, institutions, schools, and communities to promote a culture of respect, equality, and lasting awareness.

Statements by Silvia Salis during the Genoa City Council meeting on November 4

“On my social media, I have men who insult me from public profiles, with their names, surnames, and photos of their children. It’s considered normal: to a woman, they don’t say ‘you’re incompetent,’ they say ‘you’re a wh…’.”

“This language reflects a patriarchal society that sees women’s bodies as objects of judgment and possession.”

“If you think sexual and emotional education in schools isn’t necessary, you’re far from reality. We must teach respect before we even teach grammar.”

“Words matter. Every insult is another brick in the wall of hate and indifference.”

Media and Gender Stereotypes

The media — from television to social networks — often reinforce narratives that confine women and men to traditional roles. The Genoese mayor denounces “the sexist and violent language circulating on social media,” reporting that she receives sexist insults daily, often from men with public profiles and families. This language fuels domination and discrimination, which also manifest in everyday phenomena such as mansplaining — the habit of some men condescendingly explaining things to women, often disregarding their competence — and manspreading — the disrespectful occupation of physical space. These behaviors are expressions of a culture that media language helps to normalize and perpetuate.

Language as a Vehicle of Violence and Discrimination

The language used in the media often minimizes or normalizes gender-based violence, transmitting messages that hinder awareness and reporting. A conscious and correct use of language is essential to break down these cultural barriers (Federici, 2024). The adoption of inclusive and respectful language in television and journalistic narratives is crucial to dismantle patriarchal stereotypes and reduce the culture of violence (Bonacini, 2019).

The Role and Responsibility of the Media

The media have a dual responsibility: on one hand, they perpetuate stereotypes through images and discourse; on the other, they hold the power to drive profound cultural change. As highlighted by Mayor Salis, they represent “an opportunity to promote a culture of respect and equality.” It is desirable that regulations and guidelines be adopted for journalists and content creators so that they take an active role in combating gender-based violence.

Education and Cultural Transformation

Schools and institutions play a fundamental role in shaping critical awareness of sexist language and violence. Sexual and emotional education must be recognized as a right and as a means to instill values of respect, consent, and awareness — key elements in preventing violence (Istat, 2024). The recent initiatives undertaken by the City of Genoa represent a positive example of political and social engagement.

Conclusions

The path toward a society free from gender-based violence requires a deep linguistic and cultural transformation, in which the media, institutions, and citizens act with awareness. Language, as a powerful cultural tool, can serve both as an instrument of oppression and as a lever for liberation. Taking inspiration from figures like Silvia Salis means committing to ensuring that words and narratives become tools for building a fairer and more equal world.

REFERENCES

Bonacini, S. (2019). Linee Guida per una corretta comunicazione sul tema della violenza di genere. Modena: Centro Documentazione Donna.
Federici, E. (2024). Le parole contano: una prospettiva su linguaggio e comunicazione contro la violenza di genere. Annali online della Didattica e della Formazione Docente, 16(27), 154-170. doi: 10.15160/2038-1034/2836
Istat (2024). Indagini sulla violenza di genere. Consultabile su: https://www.istat.it
Rebecca Solnit (2008). Men Explain Things to Me. Chicago: Haymarket Books. [Per il concetto di mansplaining]