Discrimination in the Family and the Sense of Justice Author: Gouya Roshan

 Discrimination in the Family and the Sense of Justice

Family is usually the place where we expect unconditional security and comfort; a place where love and support should reach all members equally. However, sometimes reality falls short of this expectation, and we witness injustice—even within the closest circle of our loved ones. This experience can be painful and surprising for anyone who has a sense of justice.

I have often seen how, within my family and circle of friends, some individuals are reprimanded for minor mistakes, while others, even when faced with the most obvious disrespect, are treated as if nothing has happened. This unequal behavior has deeply affected me; I am both surprised and saddened. It has distanced me from certain people, and my former affection—even if it was not directed at me personally—has faded.

This experience has shown me that witnessing inequality can be heartbreaking, even if we ourselves are not the victims of injustice. We feel that standards are not applied equally to everyone, and some people simply accept and ignore injustice. This puts our conscience and sense of justice to a difficult test.

Yet these experiences also contain valuable lessons. Discrimination and unequal treatment remind us that we can—and should—be fair and just in our own behavior. The value of justice became clearer to me, and I realized that even when others act unfairly, I can choose not to discriminate against anyone. This choice is a conscious response and a protection of human values. Ultimately, witnessing injustice and unequal treatment can be bitter, but at the same time, it provides an opportunity for growth and for strengthening our moral conscience. We can carry a sense of justice in our hearts and, through our actions, create change—even when others are indifferent. This awareness and sensitivity to justice are among the most valuable lessons we can learn in family and social life.