In recent years, feminism has become a popular topic. Celebrities have taken sides on if they identify as a feminist and there is a heated debate over whether modern feminism is really necessary. However, once you start to notice the blatant inequality in our world, it's hard to put on the brakes. Soon, you're calling yourself a feminist and are doing your duty to educate others.
1. You notice the double standards in the media.
How come they only ask actresses about their diets, and not about the characters they're playing? Why did someone write an article just about Amy Schumer eating a pastry? How come people think Taylor Swift is a serial dater when they don't even know what she's like in a relationship? Why did that commercial about food have a girl in a bikini in it? What does that have to do with food?
2. You notice the double standards everywhere.
Why are people more uncomfortable with periods than rape? Why do girl's clothes not have pockets? Why do girls get taught how to avoid rape, but when rape happens, people just say "boys will be boys?" How come there are only diaper-changing stations in women's restrooms and not men's restrooms? Why are tampons and other feminine products considered luxury goods? Why are women not able to get an education in other countries?
3. You feel intense anger at everyone.
"I'm not a feminist because I don't hate men." Yeah, feminism is the belief that men and women are equal, and anyone who actually believes women are superior to men is not a feminist. Misandry is the belief that women are superior to men, just like misogyny is the believe that men are superior to women.
"Feminism is cancer." Well then, I guess I have cancer. Also, how dare you compare a serious disease that takes lives to a social movement asking for equality?
"But you can vote." Oh, I'm sorry, I didn't realize that complete equality started and ended with voting rights.
4. You realize that feminism is beneficial for men as well.
Yes, it's true, feminism benefits men as well, because they, too, have been hurt by traditional gender roles. A majority of male restrooms do not have diaper-changing stations, and if a man makes less than his female partner, he is taught that he is therefore a lesser person. On a grimmer note, men are taught from a young age that showing any emotion besides anger is a sign of weakness, and studies believe that it is this way of thinking that explains why men commit suicide more often than women.
5. You decide to use your new feminist insight to educate those around you.
Being a feminist has helped me reach my full potential while also helping me be more aware of what's going on in the world around me. Feminine traits are not weak, and real equality will be reached when this fact is accepted. Women and men are built and wired differently, therefore one should not be considered greater than the other. Both should be applauded and accepted for their differences.
If a man has more feminine traits, this is not a sign of weakness, just like a woman who has more masculine traits should not be ostracized. Women who want to hold on to their traditional values and take their husband's last name should not be shamed, just like a man who is not the breadwinner of his family should not be shamed. Globally, women should be able to receive an education and have a career, if that is what they want for themselves.
