If you are in search of a feminist role model, there is surely no shortage of celebrities to look up to nowadays. From Beyoncé to Lena Dunham to Ellen Page and Emma Watson, a wave of feminism in Hollywood has led many stars to use their platform to voice their opinions about the gender equality movement. Just last month, many celebrities made their feminist agenda clear at the Academy Awards through various means. Let’s take a look at a few of the stars stealing headlines lately for their outspoken stance on feminism.
1. Taylor Swift
Though Swift has not always been outspoken about her feminist views, she quieted the haters when she said in an interview that she’s “been taking a feminist stance without actually saying so,” for quite some time. Many of her quotes seen in the media are in reference to the fact that all people should be feminists because “it simply means you believe men and women should have equal rights and opportunities.” Taylor has made great statements this year through feminist lyrics on her latest album, sharing her new outlook on dating and being single, and surrounding herself with amazing gal pals.
2. Amy Poehler
Parks and Recreation’s leading lady has always been very vocal about her stance on feminism. A lot of women do not consider themselves feminists, but Amy knows it’s important and fun to be one of the ladies who celebrates ladies. She also started her own foundation, Amy Poehler’s Smart Girls, and wrote her own book, Yes Please. Amy tackles a lot of issues in her book including the idea that women take years to “unlearn what [they] have been taught to be sorry for.” The book also discourages girl hate, “Good for her! Not for me. That is the motto women should constantly repeat over and over.” Additionally, at this year’s Oscars, she supported the #AskHerMore movement which encouraged the media to ask women on the red carpet more than just what they were wearing.
3. Joseph Gordon-Levitt
And you thought you couldn’t crush on him any harder. Levitt has been outspoken about being a feminist on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, in multiple interviews, and a video he posted online. Among many other topics, he has recognized the wage gap that exists between men and women and the misinterpretation of what feminism is. In an interview with The Daily Beast, Levitt said, “I’m a believer that if everyone has a fair chance to be what they want to be and to do what they want to do, it’s better for everyone. It benefits society as a whole.”
As we celebrated International Women’s Day recently, it is important to acknowledge the great progress women have made while realizing we still have more to accomplish. But, there is hope. There are so many people in Hollywood, men and women, making great statements for the gender equality movement.. Remember that unlike bandwagon fans in sports, no one should be upset about anyone joining the feminist movement, especially celebrities. With plenty of help from influential feminists, we have the power to create an entire cultural shift in the way we interpret, discuss, and act in regard to gender roles in society. Those with the most influence should be using it for good.
Photo source: http://www.billboard.com/files/styles/promo_650/public/media/taylor-swif…