The discussion on feminism continues to grow. I hear good, decent humans constantly say, "I'm not a feminist." This troubles me. I think that the true definition of feminism has been skewed by the stereotypes that outshine it. The extravagant always draws more attention than the reasonable. So, here is my opinion on feminism. Take it or leave it. Any discussion that is worth while is bound to stir up some controversy.

Look up the definition of feminism. Go ahead. Do it. You probably ran into something along the lines of Merriam-Webster's definition that states it is, "the belief that men and women should have equal rights and opportunities." Nowhere in that definition is there mention that this is a club of women that hate men. And, it is not an exclusive group for those who choose not to shave their legs or armpits. If that is you, props. You're saving more water than I am. Nor is it even a group made up strictly of women. This definition literally states that feminism is the crazy idea that men and women are equal. Is that not a cause that is worth fighting for? Many will argue that men and women already do have equal rights. Yes, we have come a long way. Progress has definitely been made. Awesome. However we are not all the way there, yet. The Equal Rights Amendment has not been passed. It is 2016. How on God's green earth is that possible? This amendment states that civil rights cannot be denied because of one's sex. I fail to understand how a reasonable human can argue against the idea that we should all be treated as equals. I am not asking for privileges. I'm not asking for a get out for free pass. I'm not even asking. I'm demanding equality. How unladylike of me.

I need feminism for reasons beyond governmental control. I need feminism because of the culture that society often breeds. I need feminism because I think that it is ridiculous that I live in a world where I'm told that, "A girl shouldn't be walking alone." I should be able to get my tub of cookie dough ice cream at midnight in peace, thank you very much. And yes, I probably will eat the entire thing. I need feminism because my daughter should not have to be taught not to get raped. She shouldn't be told that she, a human being, is a distraction to men. Isn't that an insult to men too? Men need feminism as well, for more than one reason. We all need feminism.

I'm not saying that I don't want the door held open for me, but I'm not saying that I expect it to be either. I'm not saying that I am as physically strong and capable as most men. I definitely just talked about eating an entire tub of ice cream, and I do not do cardio. What I am saying is that when you say you are not a feminist, you're saying that women do not deserve the same BASIC RIGHTS as men. Your feminism doesn't have to be extravagant and all of the things that have driven you to think that you're not a feminist. Your feminism can simply be the refusal to accept the status quo. You can choose to improve the world. Or, you can choose to let things remain the way that they are.