The concept of feminism has been around for a long, long time. We have come such a long way since the day that women were allowed to vote. Last year, new feminists have risen up, taken a stand, and defended their opinions with grace and sophistication. From Malala Yousafzai, Jennifer Lawrence, Laverne Cox, and Taylor Swift, many strong females have voiced their thoughts for the world to hear, and have given support to men and women alike around the world. And of course, Emma Watson stunned the UN with her speech of gender equality - and that yes, these waves of movements also strongly effects men, and how they are treated.
What's really difficult is that in the millions of people like these celebrities that do support feminism in a positive way, there are those individuals out there who advertise feminism in an almost cringe worthy sort of a way; a way that gives feminism a bad name, and contradicts the idea of equality. I try very hard to stay true to the real definition of feminism, which is equality between two genders. However, I find it irritating and exhausting when there are people walking around shouting that they are feminist, or supporters of egalitarianism when they're doing just the opposite most times. As I've gotten older and have been figuring who I am as a person - a strong, resilient, creative woman - it's helped me understand who I want to be. Being surrounded by the people who make true feminists look like idiots is beyond infuriating. I have found that wannabe feminists are one of my biggest pet peeves. You can be with it, or against it . . . but we all know what makes a fair feminist in today's society.
1. They act like they care - but not in a genuine, authentic way.
This one is self explanatory. I cannot explain my deep irritation for this.
2. They "latch" onto something important just to latch on to something or to be apart of something.
I've met so many "feminists" that say they support women's rights - but all they seem to talk about it the equality of women. While that is important, it's crucial to remember that men are apart of this big movement as well. What effects women, effects men, and vice versa. It's all a domino effect and we're all in this together. I feel like a lot of wannabe feminists just want something to cling onto because they want to be apart of something huge, when they don't really care about it that much in the long run. I think they want to care, but it's just not there. if that makes sense. Don't just latch onto something because everyone else is doing it. Feminism is an important thing, but it's also important to advertise it positively and keep in mind that you are sending out an important message.
3. They are sometimes ill-informed.
There is SO much that goes into being a feminist, and what is all involved in this movement.
1. Feminism is defined as the belief in the social, political, and economic equality of the genders.
2. The goal of feminism is to challenge the systemic inequalities women face on a daily basis - but that doesn't mean to belittle or bash men.
3. . . . And contrary to popular belief, feminism has nothing to do with belittling men, in fact, feminism does not support sexism against either gender. Feminism works towards equality, not female superiority.
4. They're obnoxious. (sometimes)
"Men are so dumb".
"Women are better".
"Here is my jar for men's tears".
"All men are rapists".
"I'm an angry feminism woman. Don't mess with me".
. . . or when they have to just make it known to the world that they're feminists when they're really not . . . You do remember that feminism is the advocacy of women's rights on the grounds of political, social, and economic equality to men - and vice versa? So if you're a feminist, why are you going around saying that men are so dumb?????? You're not a feminist. You're an ill-informed, obnoxious man-hater.
Please, stop. You're making a fool out of yourself. Thank you.
5. They act like supporters just because they think it's trendy.
They just think it's a cool trend, and they can wear cool shirts that say something like "I'm a feminist" with an ironic picture that says "Jar for men's tears" or "Grow a pair" with a cartoon picture of a uterus. It just seems as though they are against men. You're not a real feminist. And then when you have a conversation about feminism, they don't have much to say. I've met people like this. My experience with them, is that they want to walk around claiming that they support gender equality, but really that's all they know what to say. When you ask them what it is that they really like about being a feminism, what they believe in, what they strive to do, and what makes them passionate about the concept ... they have given me blank stares, or have said the same old vague comment, "I just want equality". And afterwards, they can only have a conversation about the issue if they're surrounded by true feminists, using them as a soundboard and basically only make silly, ignorant comments. They want to be taken seriously, but I don't see it.
And it makes me want to punch something sometimes.
(besides the patriarchy, of course)
Let's all keep in mind that feminism is an essential part of culture, and it shouldn't be taken lightly when participating in it. Then again, we shouldn't have the choice to. I think everyone should voice their opinions, but furthermore . . . realize that we need feminism. Gender equality is so important. And, I guess there really is no "real feminist", because everyone is different. However, there is one thing that won't change about it: gender equality.



























