The term feminism has become a “dirty word” that has had its central meaning lost over time, and not for illogical reasons. Radical feminism and male bashing females have taken over the central purpose of the movement and has created stereotypes of feminists hating men, believing women are above men, and that feminists don’t advocate for male issues. Because of the misconceptions of feminism due to radicals, more and more individuals say they believe in equality rather than feminism. The dictionary definition of feminism solely defines it as women reaching political, social, and economic equality to men. But, there is a disconnect between the actual definition and those who identify as feminists. As with any other movement or group, there are extremists who are a part of the movement, just as there are people that don't actually understand the premise of feminism.
The reason feminism is a “gender bias” word is because the term was created to describe the women’s movement that began in the late 1800’s, when women had severely less rights than men. Now that women have gained more rights in the Western world, the movement is more inclusive to the groups that need it the most. Yes, feminism still focuses on women’s issues and just because there is more equality for women now than in the 1800’s, does not mean that feminism is no longer needed. Since there are disparities among men’s rights, women of color, and women in other countries, the movement has become more intersectional to promote sex, gender, and racial equality as well.
A Message to Men:
Male rape and abuse is just as important and serious and it should be discussed more. One thing feminists are always discussing is the concept of rape culture within the United States. Rape culture is something that normalizes rape due to societal attitudes of gender and sexuality. Compared to other countries where rape happens freely with no consequence, there is dispute over if a rape culture actually exists within the United States.
Although I don't think the concept of rape is normalized in comparison to other parts of the world, the way we treat victims of rape and the gender biases in cases of rape and assault is rape culture. 1 in 33 men have experienced rape during their lifetime. These statistics would most likely be higher if more men felt comfortable coming out with their experiences. Counting rape in prisons, male rape has surpassed the amount of females being raped within the U.S in some years.
Rape culture impacts men because of the perpetuated idea that men cannot be raped and the man probably liked it. Men feel humiliated and embarrassed to come forward about rape or sexual assault because it is not taken as seriously by law enforcement and the public.
As for domestic violence, over 40% of victims are men. There is a stereotype being created that all men are the abusers while all women are victims, which is not the case. Men are also socialized to not to express their feelings or be victims. With this common thread of teaching boys to " suck it up" and "be a man," this can be detrimental for a man in an abusive relationship. Although there are hotlines and resources available for both men and women, there are less shelters and resources for men victims.
Men face inequalities and mistreatment, just as women do. It's important that we spread information about the inequalities men face as victims of violence and rape, standards of masculinity and body types, and even address some of the privileges women have that men do not. Examples of this include women getting less time for the same crime,according to this study. Or the debate surrounding the U.S opening all combat jobs to women, but as of now only men have to sign up for the draft.
Gender inequalities and stereotypes impact all of us. Feminism has accomplished so much since the beginning of the movement, and it can still accomplish more. I would love to see more men getting involved with the movement to share their experiences and help erase the radicalism and misconceptions that feminism has been surrounded by.
