These are hushed topics discussed in society. Many people don't talk about it and even when they find the system oppressive, some prefer to turn a blind eye. "It's tradition," they say. So, they uphold the one thing that destroys them.

What I'm about to say might hurt a lot of feelings, but I guess it's time we openly take a stance on this one. Particularly the issue of "trading" sons and daughters in exchange for real human connection — in my culture, it's the groom who pays the bride price (not dowry), you get.

In many places where dowry and bride price are practiced, we see humans get so greedy. Some see it as a poverty alleviation strategy or get-rich-quick scheme. So they place their entire human problems on the suitors. Others go to the extreme. I remember reading about bride burning and cringing at the thought that someone could go that far to prove a point.

Humans get married to procreate and sustain humanity. Others get married for companionship and genuine connection.

I believe no one does the other a favour by getting married. Hence, partners should be treated equally. Not bought or compensated, regardless of how romantised the idea of exchanging humans for money and livestocks might be.

Why do I emphasis on this?
Some of these people are young and as such lack much economic means. Some of these families end up spending so much to raise their kids to marriageable age. The young adults deserve to be allowed to build their future and invest the money they have into profitable businesses that will help them sustain their new family.

Managing a home and catering for children is no mean job. So it's completely insensitive to render any party penniless before they even get to do the real work — which is managing a family.

I would have said we scrap out bride price and dowry, but I know very few individuals are ready for this conversation.

The most important thing as you've pointed out is that "families must treat one another with mutual respect and dignity". This is super essential.