Being a young woman in college, feminism is a topic that is brought up often. In class, at work, with friends, and even at home, I’m surrounded by it. People have different views; some say women should know their place and stay there, some think feminists are just women who hate men because they got cheated on, or that if you’re a feminist, then you must be a lesbian, and some people have the real values of feminism. Everyone has a right to their opinion, but first you have to know what you’re talking about.

Feminism is not just a group of women who were scorned by men, resulting in their hate of the entire male population. It’s not women who speak publicly against men or think women should rule the world. It sounds dumb when I put it like that, right? So many men, and women too are armed with hostile words when they hear the word “feminism.” What comes to their mind is a group of lesbians yelling at men as they walk by on the street. That’s prejudice, and that’s not fair to feminists and everything they stand for.

First off, hating men isn’t an idea of feminism. Not all feminists are lesbians, and not all feminists refuse to hear other opinions. Feminists can be straight, gay, trans, white, Asian, black, Scottish, German, male, female, Republicans, Democrats, rich, poor, or of any other labels our society gives us.

Feminism is a fight for equal rights. Women can want to be treated the same as men without being against them. It’s an argument of why our society insists men are superior to women. It’s the double standard of “hooking up.” When a man does it, he’s masculine, and people praise him. When a woman does it, she’s labeled as a “slut” or “whore” and made to feel guilty for her actions.

Feminism is the rights women should have when they become victims of rape. No matter what a woman is wearing, how much alcohol she has consumed, or who she flirts with, no woman ever asks to be raped. Sexual relationships have to be mutual, agreed upon by both sides. Whether it’s a man who pushes too far or a woman who acts without consent, rape is rape. No victim should ever be blamed for their sexual assault, no matter what sex organs they happen to possess.

Feminism is fighting for the right of choice. The choice to your values, the choice to your body. Think about what it felt like when you were ten and your parents wouldn’t let you sleep over at a friend’s house. You were pissed, right? Imagine a situation like that when it comes to a decision that will change your life forever. The choices you make in your life should be yours. No one else should be able to choose your path for you.

Feminism is equality.

The next time a debate on feminism comes up, take this into consideration before making it more heated than it needs to be. Be open to new ideas; you don’t have to change your opinions or become a feminist. Just remember that everyone has a right to their opinions, men and women alike.