Summary:

Inequality happens on many levels. Global inequality refers to the difference in wealth between countries. There is also income inequality between members of the same society. There is racial inequality, gender inequality, inequality between ethnicities, inequality for people with learning difficulties. Differences between people aren't bad in themselves, but they can negatively affect people if one side has more power, opportunities and wealth.

Panjy's story illustrates the effects of inequality, especially in terms of poverty and gender. Gender discrimination is a continuing problem in Indian society, with patriarchal norms reducing women to secondary status–both at home and in public. Women and girls have little say in decisions that affect their lives: they are commonly married young, quickly become mothers, and are frequently malnourished as they are the last to eat. Women receive little schooling and suffer from unfair inheritance laws. All these things make it difficult for women to become independent.

Students can watch the film clips on Panjy, Vusumzi and Justin to learn more about how racial and gender inequality have affected these children's lives. They can also complete activities 3, 4, 12 and 13 as well as the activity below.