As the end of March approaches, so does the closing of Women’s Month. It is because of this that I am left thinking about many things that have to do with being a woman. But mainly, how our definition of womanhood has become more progressive as the feminist movements have done so as well. This is something that I am truly grateful for, as well as something that makes me truly proud to identify as a woman.
In the time of first wave feminism, which began around the 1830’s, the movement highly focused on the rights of biological women. Two glaring examples of this were the fight for female’s right to vote as well as their reproductive rights. Both issues that defined feminism in this time period, but left out all those not identifying as cis females. In fact there was absolutely no room in this movement for anyone other than cisgender females and it is has not been until recently that the issues for individuals who identify differently are finally getting the attention they deserve.
In a time where it seems we are consistently moving backwards in a quest to “Make America Great Again” I find it comforting to think of one thing that has undoubtedly moved forward; that being the expansion of the way we define what it means to be a woman. The media attention given to new terms such as trans, gender fluid, and AMAB/AFAB is part of this progress. These terms were rarely spoken, if ever, during the time of first wave feminism.
It is truly great to live in a time where people are beginning to comprehend that gender is not something assigned at birth but rather a way for individuals to express themselves. A time where the definition of a woman is so much larger than the chromosomes you were born with or if you have a vagina. Womanhood is about so much more than biology or body parts. As we move forwards in our quest for equality, we are making room to share the stage with individuals who deserve to have their stories heard. Feminism is now more inclusive and is defined by fighting for equality of all persons. This is one of the hallmarks of the feminism within our time period and I could not be more thankful to be born in this time period and take part in it.