Throughout my own personal journey as a feminist, I’ve been faced with harsh and hateful comments for vouching for equality among the sexes. I’ve been called a “man-hater” and a “feminazi, and have been told to “go back to the kitchen”, “stay silent”, and “to accept catcalls as compliments”. Here are three messages I’d like to say to those very people.
1. Please educate yourself on the definition of feminism.
According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, Feminism is the “theory of the political, economic, and social equality of the sexes”, so no it does not only vouch for women or aim to take every male in power out of their position. Feminists don’t bash on men in their free time or completely label them as “chauvinistic” and “sexist”. They’re aiming to get rid of the patriarchy that exists in our society, which is the idea that males are “superior” to females.
2. Feminism is NOT detrimental to men, so stop acting like it’s going to be the end of the world if women get the equal treatments and opportunities.
Men should not feel threatened or disadvantaged by feminism because it does not negatively affect them at all, which is one of the most common misconceptions many people have. Feminism is trying to eliminate gender inequality, which includes all the gender stereotypes and roles that exist, like how males shouldn’t be vulnerable because it’s “unmanly” to show emotions, be the breadwinner of the family, and the strong superhero. Feminists are fighting to remove this imaginary tough exterior society has thrown on males.
3. Anyone can be a feminist despite your age, gender, and religion.
Anyone can support feminism! No one is excluded from being a feminist and the more people we have supporting and advocating for these issues the merrier. People often also have the misconception that feminists only consist of females, but that is not the case at all. We need every individual from any walk of life and culture, age, and sex to join us in defeating these social injustices.
I hope people can understand better that gender inequality is not just a women’s issue, it’s a world issue in which will not be defeated until people take a step back and take the time to learn about what feminism actually stands for. Instead of making false accusations and critical comments, please educate yourself beforehand.
Gifs courtesy of Giphy