I am female, and I will never associate myself with the phrase “I am a feminist.” Yes, by the definition, and only the purest form of the definition, I am a feminist in that I believe women should have the same rights as their counterparts. But even then I question myself because the women in today's society that are fighting for feminism seem to be challenging our social normalities in extreme ways. They have taken an empowering word and have given it a negative connotation. Equal rights for men and women will not come about overnight, and therefore there is absolutely no need to take extreme action in challenging the ideas and beliefs society has held for so many years.
To me, associating myself with the word feminism ultimately suggests that I am anti-male. I, in no way, shape, or form believe that feminism is going to be able to take root in today's society and continue to develop if its sole course of action is to criminalize and belittle the males we come in contact with on a day-to-day basis. When asking a male what they think when they hear that someone is a feminist, this is the response I received, “Feminism is annoying. Technically feminism is equality for women, but most ‘feminists’ take it overboard as if women should be treated greater.”
Saying the words “I am a feminist” should ultimately radiate positivity, strength, and empowerment. Feminism needs to be redirected because the direction it is currently heading in is belittling, and ultimately it brings about skepticism and uncertainty in the very sex that we wish to bring clarity and understanding to. Instead, we have developed a negative association with a positive movement, and for that very reason, we will not continue to move forward.
It's no secret that, while our society is developing socially, it is not yet fully developed. In a perfect world, there would be no hate crime, discrimination, or hateful speech. However, feminism, as well as, but not limited to, the Black Lives Matter movement and socialism, are rapidly spreading, and with them comes the spread of radical ideas. People are failing to realize that radical movements and actions are shedding a negative light on certain topics, because people start to question the validity of the movement.
Feminism is not something that should be preached, but practiced. We need to stop looking at issues that arise in our society and saying “Let's stop that right now,” and instead think about ethical ways to promote a belief without tainting the true message. Until feminism can be a dinner table conversation without being radicalized, then I will never associate myself with the inaccurate perception of feminism, because I in no way support the dehumanizing of the male gender to humanize the females. However, I will continue to support the ideals of equality for all people, no matter their race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation.
