Stereotypes don’t define a person. As a woman, I’ve been viewed as weak and a bitch, based upon my gender and nothing else. But women are more than their looks. International Women’s Day just past and in honor of the holiday, I wanted to share a few words on what I love most about being a woman in today’s day and age.

Back in the 20th Century, women were unable to vote and were forced to stay at home with their children while their husbands were out in the workforce all day. They were seen as weak and vulnerable. Men saw them for their bodies and not their brains.

There were many great women that came along and paved the way for our generation. Many of whom went unnoticed, and even now, many women go unnoticed for their hard work and dedication to the women’s rights movement.

No, we’re not all angry feminists either; sure we may get angry but wouldn’t you if you felt oppressed? Times are better, but women still get paid less than men. Sometimes they're judged based on appearances and whatever other flaws they possess. And that’s only focusing on the United States.

Women around the world are still being denied the right to leave without a male escort and even the right to drive. We’re not fighting just for ourselves, but for all women. Every woman deserves to be her true self and live her fullest life.

A woman is strong, kind, and beautiful. Sure some are ruder than others, but that’s all people. Women are badass and we will continue to fight for what’s right until we get what we deserve, and even then we’ll keep fighting for our future generations. Now, this is the new norm and I am beyond proud to be a part of history.