1. DEFAULT TO “MS” WHEN REFERENCING A WOMAN
The titles of Mrs. and Miss are just another way we tie marital status and age to a woman’s identity, let’s stop doing this!
2. NEGOTIATE
Employers oftentimes offer women less money to start, assuming that they will take the first figure and won’t negotiate for more. Showing resistance against these stereotypes of women being passive and intimidated can move women forward in the workplace.
3. FEMINIZE YOUR LANGUAGE
Sayings like “grow some balls”, “man up”, and “don’t be a bitch” reinforce that a man is synonymous with strong and women are weak. I prefer “grow some ovaries”, “woman up”, and “don’t be a little boy”.
4. ASSUME A WOMAN
Using labels like “female athlete” or “female scientist” is male-first language, ignoring that most of these fields are starting to become predominantly women. Going forward, gender nonspecific labels can be a way of breaking gender norms.
When creating a presentation or zine with engineers or lawyers or doctors, fill it photos of women!
5. COMPLIMENT THEIR MIND BEFORE THEIR LOOKS
It’s tempting to tell a pretty woman how pretty she is, but it really makes a person feel good when they are heard as well as seen. Tell the women in your life that you admire their intellect, kindness, and drive.
6. JUST KEEP WALKING
If a man is walking towards you on the sidewalk, he will assume that you will step aside. Don’t walk in the grass or the road, look forward and keep walking. Let him step aside.
7. MANSPREAD
Don’t shrink yourself, claim your space.
8. STOP APOLOGIZING
Before saying “I’m sorry”, ask yourself: 1. if you’re actually sorry, and 2. if it was something you could have prevented. Don’t immediately apologize because you’re afraid of being the object of criticism.
9. LOOK OUT FOR OTHER WOMEN
This can mean drawing attention back to her when she’s interrupted, or sitting with her until her Uber or bus gets there. Whatever you can to make her feel less alone.
10. QUESTION MISOGYNY
If a sexist joke is made around you, don’t laugh uncomfortably. Ask them to explain the joke. Make them feel the consequences of their words.
