Lets talk about feminism today.
Since my blog mostly comprises of things I’m passionate about, today, I’ll talk about one of the more serious things I believe in.I am a proud feminist and today I’ll be telling you why,along with clearing some of the air around feminism.
When I say ‘feminist’ the first image that comes to your mind is probably the rabid little subsidiary that has been created out of feminists, casually referred to as ‘feminazis’.They are,in case you are unaware the exact opposite of the patriarchal system, that is,they promote the female as the supreme gender and diss all men for being douchebags.They are quite a bunch, known for badmouthing,attacking,being narrow-minded and are actually quite widespread,especially on the internet,adding to the problem.They have created all this stigma around feminism,which at its core is nothing but a very simple belief which I will just elaborate for you.
True feminism is nothing but a belief in the equality of the two sexes.It is considering the male equal to the female and is the concept of having no supreme gender.It is not exactly anti-patriarchy as much as it is anti-sexism and just believing that everyone is created equal and that there is no divide between us.It is not considering anything to be a thing ‘boys’ do or a thing that is so ‘girlish’.It is not questioning the person’s gender with respect to what they want to do.It is being okay and letting a boy cry because he’s a human being and not reprimanding him for ‘crying like a girl.’It is letting a woman be educated,independent and let her earn for herself and not calling her out for it because that is a ‘man’s job’. It is letting a guy come out as an assault victim and not questioning him for not fighting back because he’s a ‘man’.It is not considering a female an ‘object’ to leer at and pass comments about.It really is just a belief in equality which is the most basic construct to believe in as a decent human being with a conscience.
Now,why this much of a fuss around it then? Partly because of the feminazism.Partly due to the name itself. Why ‘feminism’ and not something like ‘equalism’ if it is a belief in equality ,you ask? To that my first instinct would be to remind you that our entire species is referred to as ‘mankind’.The second would be,as Mr.Shakespeare has said,”What is in a name?” Thirdly,I’ll provide you with the logical reason for it. Most societies in today’s world have been patriarchal for ages.The women have had the shorter end of the stick for so long and simply need more uplifting and empowerment than men in most sectors.Even today,more women are catcalled on the streets than men are.More females are uneducated and the worldwide sex ratio is still unfavorable to women.So,while feminism aims at uplifting both sexes and bring them at the same level,since it will benefit women more, it has been called feminism.In all honesty, I don’t see the reason behind the big hullaballoo about it.
So,can men be feminists?Or are only females feminists? If you are a human being and you believe in the equality of the sexes, you pretty much already are a feminist. Unless you are sexist and consider the opposite sex to be below you and not worthy of the same human rights as you,you are a feminist.You may not like to hear that because of the controversy around being a feminist these days.But that happens to be the truth.Take it the hard way or accept it now.Your choice.
Now,as to why I am a feminist?I have been and continue to be a witness to and on the receiving end of sexism .It angers and infuriates me and I want to bring about a change in the common notions society has about gender quality.I have respect for all people and do not believe in any divisions.In short,I’m a feminist because I believe in equality and respect for all.That’s all.
Here is a link to Emma Watson,the UN Goodwill Ambassador for Women and one of my idol’s powerfully enlightening speech at the UN Assembly at the start of her movement against gender inequality, HeForShe. It for me represents what the actual ideals behind feminism are. All her pictures throughout my post are quotes from the same.
THIS POST’S QUESTION: Are you a feminist? Comment below with what you think about it,I’d love to hear from you!
103 replies on “Feminism.”
I’m a feminist. As a white male who believes in freedom and equality, tolerance and justice, it is easy to be a feminist and anti-racist. The world would be a much better place for everyone with a good dose of equality and fairness.
LikeLiked by 6 people
Amazingly put.
LikeLike
I am a proud male feminist.
LikeLiked by 3 people
I’m proud to hear that.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Of course I am! It was especially great that you covered the fact that feminism isn’t feminazism, I had a friend who believed in equality but wouldn’t call herself a feminist because of the stereotype surrounding it.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I have many friends of the sort too! I’m glad to hear that!
LikeLiked by 1 person
LOVE. My site Vintage Feminist is built on the same values. I never really thought as being a feminist until I really thought about it and like you said it’s about being equal and more importantly RESPECTED equally. There are greater issues I know, but if men and women respected each other and welcomed them to be and do anything with open arms the world would greatly benefit. A term like ‘equalism’ is an interesting thought as well. LOVED reading this! Thank you!
LikeLiked by 2 people
I’m so glad to hear that.It has been mostly similar for me,I realised that I had always been a feminist,even when I didn’t know what it meant.Thank you so much for your lovely views! They make me so so happy!! Also,this is actually one of the reasons why I love your site a lot too!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much! And same with you 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
😄😄
LikeLike
I am conflicted on being called a feminist. I have yet to sort out my views from a African American woman’s standpoint and my own personal views of how I want to be treated in respect to relationship from the opposite sex. I am still working all of this out. I certainly believe in equal rights for women but, when men say things like I don’t have to be a gentleman or a woman gets upset when a man holds the door open…I get a little perplexed. I do like your article and openness on the topic!
LikeLiked by 2 people
It’s okay to be conflicted! I get what you mean,feminism these days has been blown out of proportion. It’s okay to be thinking about it and believe in equality; it’s just not okay to be sexist and promote gender disparities. Thank you so much!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you! You have given me much to think about!
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s my pleasure.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m proud to be a feminist. I used to have a negative connotation of the word when I was younger, but I realized that I was always a feminist because I had always believed that all people deserved to be treated equally. I’ve been a little skeptical of celebrities nowadays throwing it around as a buzzword and thinking they should get extra credit for calling themselves feminists. To me, it’s a no-brainer!
LikeLiked by 2 people
I find that very annoying sometimes,using the word feminism to grab attention because it’s controversial and would spark debates. To me too,there is no question.Everyone has a right to equality. Thank you!
LikeLike
I’ve done some posts about this recently too 🙂 Have you read any of Clementine Ford’s pieces about this? She’s a very vocal Australian feminist and, while some of her stuff is certainly thought-provoking and possibly could be construed as inflammatory, she’s done/said some seriously awesome stuff. Well worth checking out if you’re interested in this kind of stuff 🙂 Have you read much feminist literature?? That’s one of my big ‘to-do’ list items.
LikeLiked by 2 people
She sounds amazing! I’ll be sure to look into her work.It is one of my big to do list items too and I’m going to start on a bug feminist literature frenzy once school ends! Thank you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Me too!! I really need to get into some and there is just so much to read! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I know,thats how I feel constantly!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I am a feminist, definitely, and as you say, this is not to be little one gender or the other, quite the opposite. This is to validate genders equally. In the end we are all humans, how does your reproductive system (pardon my boldness) define who is better than who?
And yes, women empowerment for educating women, for not to feel or think less of themselves, not being objectified or badmouthed.
Most importantly this is not: XX vs XY!!! Humankind should stick in this united.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Exactly! This is not a fight between chromosomes or reproductive systems ,it is a fight against the toxic mentalities that still thrive amongst us.Thank you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I am a feminist, and i am appalled the “traditions” and mentality of Indians(including the educated), not only are they sexist but i have seen many women who have lived there life in oppressed that they have accepted their “inferiority”. This is what i think is the worst kind of abuse and is deleterious to the society not just women. Also i think that you would agree with me that each and every human should be equal and should not be discriminated on the basis of their colour, religion, race, sex, or ANY of their physical or mental attributes and also shouldn’t be led to believe that they are inferior or should have any reason to be embarrassed of themselves.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I absolutely agree with you! I do think it’s the saddest when people start considering themselves deserving of the discrimination they recieve.Its a low point for all of us. Thank you!
LikeLike
This word is just used in all the wrong ways possible these days.
I believe in treating the person opposite as a human being first, before any prejudice.
LikeLiked by 2 people
That’s a wonderfully simple approach.I know,it is unfair how misused it is these days.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I am a feminist and glad to see this awesome post.thank you.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I realised I was a feminist after reading the book manhood. Amazing book and the first time I thought of feminism in the way you describe, as equality. In truth I have always been a feminist but the word is so convoluted and ostracised that it has been so hard to really understand or want to admit to. I’m so glad that more and more people refer to feminism and mean equality for all.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Who is the author? I’m really trying to start on feminist literature and it sounds like a great start.I feel like almost everyone feels that way about calling themselves a feminist at some point.Its a sad consequence of misconstruing the word so much by elements of media and the abundant feminazis. It’s a great thing that awareness is increasing these days,thank you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Steve Biddulph is the author. The book is manhood. I read it because at the time I was going through a separation with my husband due to him having anger issues. And once I read it I gave it to him to read when I left him. It actually changed him, it changed his relationships with everyone. And happily, he and I are back together and as in love as ever, and certainly happier than ever. Awesome book for men and women to read….
LikeLiked by 1 person
That is a wonderful change by just reading a book! I’ll be sure to look it up and have a read,it sounds revolutionary. It’s amazing how that book fixed your relationship,we need more of such literature!
LikeLiked by 1 person
For sure! And more people willing to read, and be open to what is written, and to be courageous enough to realise they might need to change and to then do something about it.
I hope you can find it. It’s a great book.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes,of course!
Me too,it sounds amazing.
LikeLike
yes i am a feminist and love this post! completely right about the definition of feminism 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you! It makes me happy that you found it right and proud to hear that you’re a feminist!
LikeLiked by 1 person
i am a feminist..and i think feminism is not only about making everyone realize that woman can do whatever a man does.. of courseshe can do it better
LikeLiked by 2 people
Hahaha,of course, we like to believe we’re better.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love your blog as I have blogged abt the same I know how you feel about this. This system is degrading men rather than uplifting female.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much! I agree and it is such a sad thing to see.
LikeLike
I completely agree with what you’re saying, it’s really frustrating to have double-standards thrust upon you. Whilst I agree with you that feminazis are definitely more harming the cause for equality, I can understand why they feel pushed to be so extreme, although I don’t condone their actions. I think as females we are often forced to put things across in an inoffensive manner, otherwise we are written off as ‘hormonal women’.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I feel like that too! For a female who raises her voice is hormonal or its her time of the month and a man who does so is just fighting for his rights. Its so ridiculous.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s so frustrating that people think they can undermine an argument by using the period card, not cool.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Never cool. My period does not define who I am. My moral set and way of thinking does.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Exactly.
LikeLiked by 1 person
To be honest, “feminist” has been rather a negative trigger-word for me, but your explanation is very good. My grandfather, W. O, Carver, was a staunch supporter of women in Christian ministry, and the Biblical principle of “In Christ there is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female” was definitely taught in our home. (My brother got into sewing from being fascinated with our mother’s sewing machine, and for many years has made most of his wife’s clothes.) That said, the reason “feminism” has been negative has been the insistence in some quarters that men and women are the same. They are equal, certainly, and aren’t to be put in boxes, but they aren’t the same. (I could go into a medical/psychological dissertation on that, but I won’t.) However, I certainly applaud your effort to remove stereotypes. Incidentally, thanks for the follow!
LikeLiked by 2 people
I’ve always thought that is a beautiful belief.I consider equality as being respected the same and having the same rights and never being literally equal as male and female are most certainly not. They are both different and I,as a feminist ,aim to find unity among the differences . Thank you so much for your honesty and insights!
LikeLike
Thank you for sharing your thoughts! It couldn’t be more true that men often take a step back when they hear about women’s issues. What they don’t know is that when a conversation strikes up about women’s rights, men need to be first at speaking up about this issue. Men need to get more involved. Even though women are the ones struggling, we can’t forget that the struggle happens because of male patriarchy. I see this more of an issue men need to address, but sadly we don’t see this very often. Like Watson said, “gender equality is your issue, too”. I just think that people need to start changing their perceptions on what it means to be a “feminist”. If more men proudly called themselves that, there would be no shame associated with the word.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Exactly! That is exactly what HeForShe stands for and is the reason why I like this movement so much! Feminism has an unnecessary stigma around it that needs to be removed for the establishment of equality.
LikeLike
Love this blog post! It really helped me learn more about feminism and what it really means.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you! I love that I could make you more aware!
LikeLike
Love your writing about this issue. I also feel like I’m a feminist and I’m also passionate about this issue especially seeing as the social awareness about gender equality in my surroundings are still very low. There are times when I keep on questioning other people and also myself about whether or not the society that we live in now is ready to accept the ‘equality movement’. And sometimes I also feel pessimistic about this issue, but writings like your post really gave me more insights about what being a feminist is all about. I also feel like we are slowly changing and gradually people are becoming more and more aware of this issue. Thanks for that. Keep on writing about what you’re passionate about and let’s keep on bringing more awareness to the people around us. Cheers!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you.In the current scenario,its only natural to be saddened by the status of equality of the sexes in the world today.The only source of hope and motivation is the progress that we have made,people are recognising this issue as very immediate and real and are speaking on it.Thank you so so much.
LikeLike
I absolutely love this!
LikeLiked by 2 people
And I love you for commenting!
LikeLike
I am ashamed to admit that I had a mini fangirl moment over the fact that a fantastic blogger replied with a v cute reply.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh my god you’re making me blush so much. 🙈 You’re like blog goals and I am actually fangirling over the fact that you thought my reply was cute.
LikeLike
Thanks for this. So much of what you say here I try to tell others. Many people see feminism as an attack on specific communities, which only exposes their own misogyny. Check this post out
https://jholmes90blog.wordpress.com/2016/10/06/the-brutality-of-black-male-patriarchy/
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you! It has always bothered me even within my own known ones ,how little about feminism is actually understood and how misconstrued it is. I will,thanks!
LikeLike
That is an amazing post.It raises so many points of importance and was quite an intriguing read,as I myself have witnessed people of colour not realising that they are just as sexist as a white man next to them.
LikeLike
Thanks! I blog weekly on racism/sexism and faith. Follow me! https://jholmes90blog.wordpress.com/
LikeLiked by 1 person
I will!
LikeLike
I am a proud feminist and I love hearing from other people who are passionate about feminism. I especially love seeing men or male aligned people who are feminists, because feminism truly is for everyone.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I do too! Men who are feminists are automatically friendship material for me!
LikeLiked by 1 person
The biggest problem with modern feminism is that it has been taken over by the feminazis, and they are the main ones with power and influence. The term now has such a stigma that it may be beyond saving (like the roman salute and the swastika)
I reckon the best thing to do is to identify not just as a feminist, but as a traditional feminist – the kind that actually cares about equality and doesn’t go after non-issues or push lies and narratives.
LikeLiked by 2 people
That is sadly true.Feminism has been destroyed from what it is to what feminazis think it is.It is such a tragedy.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I read somewhere that feminism is called so because it is the feminine things we need to equalise. Eg. Boys are ridiculed for crying because it is considered feminine.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Oh,that might be right,it makes sense! Thanks for the information!
LikeLiked by 1 person
This Is Amazinggg.! I’ve Read So many articles,posts,debates.etc. about feminism..but your post pretty much sums the whole issue up..A lot of people debate on the issue that feminism is a way to bring females to a superior level than men..I’m sure they’ll get their doubts cleared after reading this .:)
LikeLiked by 2 people
I’m glad you feel that way about my post! :’)
LikeLiked by 1 person
This post gives me life. Thank you for this ❤ Glad to know someone out there shares my beliefs!
LikeLiked by 3 people
Awww,you’re too sweet 😊 The same goes for you :’)
LikeLike
LOVE!!! ❤
LikeLiked by 3 people
Love you too!
LikeLike
This is brilliant 👌 Yes, I am a feminist and extremely proud to be one 🙂
LikeLiked by 3 people
I’m proud of you too! :’)
LikeLike
Thank you for this sister!
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thank YOU!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Just came across your post after writing my own: “Am I am feminist?” I really appreciate your definition of feminism as an all-inclusive movement. I think a lot of men are afraid of feminism, which manifests as anger, resentment, etc., because they either don’t understand it or have only been shown the angry/resentful side of “feminazism” as you describe it. I think you’ve done a great job of outlining a framework that will better engage men in a movement about which they should care a great deal. I’d be interested in your feedback on my post. Have a great day, and thanks for your work!
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thank you! Feminism has been so misconstrued these days that even females are afraid of being associated with it so I decided to just clear some air around it.Glad you found it good! I’ll just have a read on yours too. Have a great day too!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hey that was amazing ! Really inspirational it was ! Check out my blog, I have just started so there might be some mistakes – http://www.thrcontemporaryindian.wordpress.com
LikeLiked by 2 people
I’d love to look at it! :’)
LikeLike
Fantastically balanced post, thanks!!
LikeLiked by 2 people
That makes me extremely glad ,thank you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes! So glad to hear others fighting for feminism! I am super into feminism, and I actually have written some posts about it, especially over body expectations like stretch marks, makeup, and shaving. I would love if you checked it out!!
LikeLiked by 2 people
I would ADORE that.I love posts about body positivity and feminism.Thank you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m a feminist and have convinced many of my peers of all types of genders and backgrounds that they are, too, they just didn’t know it yet! I ask myself and women around me, “Are YOU making this choice? Does this decision support you, or please someone/something else first?” In my world, as an advocate, it’s a way of living and thinking equally, with respect, with immediate consequences for oppressive behaviors. I feel the need to have this conversation often, and point out when I see unfairness. It’s so important to make people who are oppressive FEEL TERRIBLE. They will wake up with enough jostling. Then, ex-oppressors will start viewing the system as terrible too. And a lot of men subconsciously contribute to oppression of themselves, each other, as well as women, and go through a realization when it’s brought to light. Love your post!
LikeLiked by 2 people
I have too,many people just feel scared of the concept and do not realise that they pretty much are a feminist,especially men. Thank you so much for your very kind words! :’)
LikeLiked by 1 person
Of course! People nowadays don’t seem to grasp the idea of why we should all be feminists. People argue that women have already achieved so much and stop being a “hassle” and that we should be happy with what we have, BUT if it weren’t for us feminists, then we wouldn’t get anything done! Great article!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Women have achieved so much,but its just a start in a very long path to go on! Thank you!
LikeLike
Beautiful post. There are so many viewpoints on equality….i love your voice and your views. Thank you for sharing. Please check out my blog, i would love your feedback!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you,equality is such a basic concept yet we still need to talk about it. I absolutely will!
LikeLiked by 1 person
So true! And so sad. Please do! Thank you so much
LikeLiked by 1 person
☺️
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hey! I absolutely loved your post. I too am a proud feminist. In fact I joined WordPress just today and my first post is about what I learnt from Emma Watson’s speech, the same one you are referring to. I’d love it if you could check it out because I have a feeling we share the same beliefs, and since I’m new here I could really use the feedback. But even if you don’t, that’s perfectly okay. Your post was beautiful. :))
LikeLiked by 2 people
Hello! Thank you so so much,you are extremely kind! That speech is revolutionary,ain’t it? I will just have a look at your blog,reading new blogs is one of my favourite things to do,don’t worry 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for being a strong advocate. I hate the women claiming to be a feminist and then they bash men. Great post!!!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Me too! Thank you too for being a true feminist! 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
And thank you!!!!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
😊😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is a great post, and probably must have watched that speech a hundred times- it gets better every time! I loved the part you wrote about wanting to see change, I wrote something similar on my blog and reading others’ stuff really empowers me. Seeing so many people feeling the same way as me gives me so much hope for the future, let’s do this together! xx
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you so much! I’ll just drop by your post,seeing people talk about equality gives me so much hope too! Let’s do it together! 😄
LikeLiked by 1 person
What do you think? https://wordpress.com/post/tuneinfeminism.wordpress.com/334
LikeLiked by 1 person