As a feminist, a friend recently asked me what I thought feminism actually meant. He was confused because the true definition has been muddled, tampered with, and misconstrued by those on the internet who may not have a full grasp of what it means. For example, the #menist group on Twitter claims all feminists think they are superior to men. Pro tip: we don’t.
I am here to give you some insight into what it means to be a feminist.
Feminism is for anyone. Any gender, any race, any religion, any political affiliation, and any sexual orientation. If you believe in equality for women, you are a feminist.
Astounding though it may seem, feminists do not believe they’re superior to men. For all those internet trolls who are convincing the public that feminism is poison because it’s reverse sexism, you’re very very mistaken. Feminism isn’t about hate, anger, or discrimination of others. It’s about progress towards a world where women don’t have to wear headphones walking down the streets to drown out the catcalls, and female CEOs are viewed as successful and assertive instead of bossy and bitchy. Where women make 100 cents to the dollar without controversy or claims that “she doesn’t work as hard”. Feminists aren’t fighting against men, we are fighting against those who oppose equality.
Ever seen a girl walking down the street in a tube top, tiny shorts, and heels? Well, she probably doesn’t respect herself or believe in equal rights, right? WRONG. Women should wear whatever makes them feel fierce. Whether you feel most empowered rocking sweatpants or short shorts, everyone deserves to feel confident in their own skin. It doesn’t matter what another female puts on her body, women should be respecting other women. What you wear does not define what you believe in.
Ladies, we MUST stop slut shaming! Anyone can be a feminist remember?! Just because a woman has sex frequently with many different partners doesn’t mean she has less self-respect than someone who prefers to abstain. Sex can feel empowering to some ladies, while others feel empowerment from saying no. The same goes for men; just because a man frequently has sex with women doesn’t mean he can’t also be a feminist. Feminism doesn’t stem from your sexuality, but rather from your beliefs and how you treat the women around you. Whatever you do, it’s your life, your body, and your choice. Own it!
Despite how the media portrays feminists, most are open and willing to discussing their beliefs with non-feminists. As with any ideology, there are always extreme cases. However, if a feminist snaps at someone, it’s probably because they are having that conversation. And by “that”, I mean provoking anger rather than curiosity and learning. Naturally, this would piss anyone off. If someone pretends to be interested in your beliefs only to attack them, you’d want to respond in defense. Bottom line, don’t be an ass if you don’t want to get snapped at.
Feminists support other women instead of tearing them down. There is power in numbers, and empowerment in making those around you feel as amazing as you do. Supporting other women, especially in the workplace, is an integral part of breaking the glass ceiling. The more successful and diverse women we have in powerful positions, the closer we are to true equality. Another woman’s success should fill you with pride rather than envy. Use it as inspiration to find your own path and achieve your own goals.
Feminism has always been about challenging traditional gender roles. It’s not just about fighting against female stereotypes, men can find themselves trapped by societal expectations just as often as women do. Strict binary gender rules can drive both males and to feel as though they are not allowed to dress the way they’d like, talk the way they’d like, or live the way they’d like.
Feminism is whatever you make of it. Whether you’re loud and proud or silently supporting, own your power and NEVER let anyone tell you you’re doing it wrong!