Feminism has been around for some time and seems to be getting more attention as of recently. This attention came in good and bad forms. As it became more prevalent, strong opinions arose on the issue. Many people feel we have already arrived at equality for men and women. Others do not support the idea that there should be equal rights and opportunities for men and women. However, some feel we are not at all there yet, and show continuous support. Feminism is defined as the advocacy of women's rights on the basis of the equality of the sexes. From the beginning of time, women were not only disrespected by men but excluded from almost any and everything.
It is important to understand that our specific views on feminism stem from our personal and direct experiences. We as humans tend to turn a blind eye to things that do not effect us directly. If we want change, we must be the change we want to see. Most people at some point in their life has faced discrimination. Some face it way more than others. Nonetheless, it is still there and deep down we know it exists. Turning a blind eye to feminism no matter what your gender or status in life is similar to turning a blind eye to racism. If you have personally faced discrimination, you should understand that feminism is real and should not be taken for a joke. We are all biased at the end of the day, but small effort daily can go a long way.
A common argument used against feminism is that "women are not the same as men so there cannot be equality." It is true that women and men do not have the same physical capabilities however in this case the "same" does not mean "equal." We are referring to equal access to opportunities or equal rights. Similar to the MLK civil rights movement. Men and women do not necessarily have to be the same physically to have access to similar opportunities.
Feminism is more important than ever because it favors men as well. Men are always taught to be tough and not show emotion when in reality, both men and women have emotions. Men should be allowed the same opportunity to show emotion as women, but they cannot because the world chastises them for it. We can see where the equality comes to light but we choose to ignore it and remain segregated.
Take, for example, two young men who want to learn the game of baseball. One boy is physically shorter and weaker than the next boy. So, it is okay for the weaker boy to be excluded from the opportunity to learn how to use a bat, or throw a baseball? We have passed unfair judgment on this boy simply due to something he cannot control. I bet if you gave him a chance, he would turn out to be a great player. Sadly, we do not give people a chance. We tend to stick to what is normal and if something is out the ordinary, we shun it.
In conclusion, we have a long way to go not just with understanding feminism but understanding that we need to love each other. It is good to know people, especially men are actively trying to come to an understanding. Rappers such as Lil Uzi Vert and A$AP Rocky has shown support for the movement by wearing t-shirts and rapping about their ignorance toward the issue.
Maybe one day, we can all come together as one.
