Feminism awareness has no doubt increased in the past few years and has been made present on social media with the #MeToo and #TimesUp campaigns. It’s hard for me to say, but I’ve watched silently from the sidelines and haven’t been an active, vocal participant.
Now before you jump to conclusions, I am a full supporter of the feminist movement. I whole-heartedly believe in equality between the male and female sexes and that women should receive the same opportunities and pay as their male counterparts.
What makes me different is I don’t necessarily want to talk about it.
Photo Credit: Desenio
I’ve been under a lot of pressure, both intentional and unintentional, from others to speak up. “I’m a woman,” they said. “It’s my job,” they said. I’m not here to say that they were wrong for urging me to stand up for my fellow females– in fact, they were completely justified. However, I believe that individuals should support different causes in their own way.
Many people feel comfortable publicly advocating for their causes and views, whatever those may be. They want to share their ideas. They want to be heard. That is absolutely great and I know no progress could be made if we didn’t have those strong individuals who are ready to rally for their beliefs. However, not everyone is willing to publicly state their ideas and beliefs, no matter the stakes. But, that doesn’t mean that one can assume someone’s beliefs are wrong simply because these “sideline” or silent parties aren’t readily volunteering their opinion.
I’ve always been kind of uncomfortable sharing my political views, unlike my parents or my friends who are strong advocates for every cause they believe in. I’ve watched my mom donate money to several presidential campaigns and attend march after march. Don’t get me wrong; I’m proud of what she does and how strongly she believes in her causes. I constantly brag about how she is the only female shareholder in her law firm and one of the best trust and estate lawyers I know. But, that doesn’t mean that I have to take the same stances as her.
Every movement needs its vocalists, but they need their silent supporters too.
Photo Credit: NaijiGist
Silent supporters are more common than you might think; they are those who don’t necessarily want to post about their cause on social media but will support others who do. They are those who don’t feel comfortable attending a march but will support from their home instead.
It’s not necessarily about how someone displays their support, but the fact that they do. Just as the feminist movement is about fighting for equality and respect, I’m suggesting that we respect each other’s methods in supporting it. Stand up for what is right, but it’s okay to do it in a way that is right for you.
Cover Photo Credit: TED
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