The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines feminism as, “the theory of the political, economic, and social equality of the sexes” or as an “organized activity on behalf of women's rights and interests.” In lamest terms, one could say that if you are willing to stand by and give your full support to this notion of equality, you could classify yourself as a feminist. However, recent events have given many people a negative connotation of this title, while leaving others confused on what it really means to be a “feminist.” Perhaps you are someone who is happy to take on this label, but are reluctant to in fear that you will be thought of as an angry, men-hating, genitalia outfit-wearing, abortion enthusiast. If this is you, which is fully understandable, please take this opportunity to reconsider the beauty of this movement of unity and, in the spirit of feminism, ignore the stereotypes.
While it is defined as a theory, feminism can be open to interpretation. This is what it means to me personally:
Feminism is letting our daughters walk down the “boy aisles” at Toys R Us. It is offering to pay the dinner bill because your boyfriend paid last time. It is sharing an office space with a man that does not feel the need to look down your blouse. It is just a game of football, not powder puff. It is thanking your father for raising you to be the woman you are today. It is not only being able to vote for a president, but being able to vote for a female candidate. It is a thank you to the women of our past who gave girls like me the voice to write this article. It is encouragement to the women of our future to keep the voice alive.
That being said, here are some things feminism is not:
Feminism is not defined by sexual preference, ethnicity, or your stance on abortion. There are no rules that state you must be pro-choice to be a feminist. While the marches featured some explicit posters and harsh words about abortion, you have every right to your own personal stance, as long as it is not demeaning to that of your fellow sister. It is somewhat difficult to work towards female empowerment if you are putting each other down. That being said, feminism is not an act of hate, whether that hate is in regards to men or each other. It also does not solely have to be for women, men can be feminists too! You can’t have gender equality if you do not allow the opposite sex to fight for what they believe as well.
Yes, a great many women are claiming their “privilege” all over social media right now, but they were given that feeling of security from past women’s acts of selflessness that should be carried on. We have surely come a long way over time to be able to live such privileged lives, but while one woman in America is coming home from a long day’s work where she makes the same if not higher salary than her husband, a woman in Afghanistan is beheaded for visiting the city without her husband’s accompaniment.
Feminism is the manifestation of future infinite opportunity globally. Do not let your fellow “Not my march” zealots on Facebook intimidate your personal convictions. Own the title of “feminist” because the movement is far from over, and own it because you CAN.
