If your friend is a gender studies major, you know that this discipline goes way beyond the classroom. By now, you’ve definitely understood the importance of acknowledging issues pertaining to human rights for all people. So this year, why not give your friend a gift that will resonate with her (or his or their) social consciousness? We found some awesome, adorable and charitable items that will make any intersectional feminist ally cry for joy.
Clothing
Cropped Tee
It doesn’t get much more straightforward than this stylish crop ($18 at Etsy).
T-Shirt
Nobody’s the boss of your badass gender studyin’ bestie. This edgy shirt is $20 at Etsy.
Hiphugger Panties
Because you and your friends call BS on the #TamponTax and you’re so over spending a ton on “feminine hygiene” products every month. These period-absorbing panties are both cute and functional ($34 at THINX).
Decor
Paper Flower Wreath
We love the affirming message on this gorgeous handmade wreath—and your friend will too ($60 at Etsy).
Art Print
This print is on point for your ~radical~ friend’s bare walls ($18 at Etsy).
Throw Pillow
Your friend is all about educating on the intricacies of gender, so gift her this perfect conversation starter ($22.48 at RedBubble).
Novelty Gifts
Empowermints
Your stocking stuffer game will be strong with these Rosie mints ($3 at the Feminist Majority Foundation).
Tote Bag
Empower your friend with a piece of Queen Lorde’s brilliant mind—on a canvas tote bag ($12.60 at Zazzle).
Button
Tolerance, consciousness-raising, pink and a play on words? This clever button has it all ($2.35 at Zazzle).
Pencil Pouch
Your friend is probably sick of defining feminism for the millionth time. Save her the trouble with this handy-dandy pouch ($22 at RedBubble).
Journal
This journal is seriously adorable and great for a proud feminist ($20 at RedBubble).
Mug
Your friend will love cozying up with this sleek and outspoken mug ($16.25 at RedBubble).
Sticker
Yeah, let’s talk about how every person matters, regardless of race, class, gender, sexuality and ability ($2.40 at RedBubble). In a fun, retro way.
Charitable Gifts
Bangle Set
Much better than making a donation in your friend’s name, these bangles make a gorgeous gift that also serves to empower marginalized women in India ($22 at Raven + Lily).
Candle
This stunning candle helped to provide employment opportunities for women who came out of homelessness right here in the U.S. ($22 at Raven + Lily). AND it smells like bamboo and lemongrass.
Mug
Not only is the sentiment on this mug ($10 at Thistle Farms) beautiful, but it is also especially meaningful for the women at Thistle Farms, who are survivors of addiction, prostitution and trafficking in Nashville, Tennessee. Proceeds help these women live to their fullest potential.
Bracelet
This bracelet ($38 at The Brave Collection), handmade in Cambodia, spells “brave” in Khmer and empowers both the women who make the jewelry and those who wear it.
Books & Magazines
Ms. Magazine Subscription
Founded by Women’s Lib leader Gloria Steinem, Ms. ($12.50 at the Feminist Majority Foundation) is still going strong today AND paying tribute to our fave feminists—oh hey, Amy Schumer.
The Feminine Mystique, by Betty Friedan
The Feminine Mystique ($15.25 at Amazon) may be controversial, but there is no doubt it’s one of the foundational works of the Women’s Liberation movement. If your gender studies major of a friend hasn’t read it yet, you better bet she wants to.
Women, Race & Class, by Angela Davis
Tackling intersectionality where Friedan failed to, Davis wrote this absolute classic ($14.03 at Amazon) for women’s studies, that your friend will devour even outside of the classroom.
Redefining Realness, by Janet Mock
Before Caitlyn Jenner, there was Janet Mock providing the visibility that the trans community still sorely lacks. Let us tell ya, Janet is a boss if we’ve ever seen one. Her book ($12.45 at Amazon) is a must-read.
Jane Eyre, by Charlotte Brontë
Before “feminism” was even a word, authors like Jane Austen and Charlotte Brontë made some strong claims for women—in fiction form. Jane Eyre ($16.83 at Amazon) is one of our all-time favorites.
Feminist Ryan Gosling, by Danielle Henderson
Ryan Gosling, feminism—these are just some of our favorite things. Share the joy this holiday season with this awesome novelty book ($10.84 at Amazon).
What will you get your gender studyin’ BFFs this year, collegiettes?