Feminism is something that is very important to me, but before attending college and taking a women and gender studies class, I never really knew what feminism was. Today, I don’t know where I would be without feminism. Most of everything I do and believe in is based on feminism.
For those who do not know what the exact definition of feminism is, it is defined as “the social, political and economic equality of the sexes." In my opinion, everybody needs feminism, which includes men as well. Yes, men can be feminists too! To be honest, the world needs more men who support feminism.
To me, feminism is about women being empowered and being treated equally to men. Feminism has gotten a bad reputation and has negative stigmas attached to it. When people think of feminism, they usually have the impression that it is about man-hating, unshaved arms and legs, bra burning and women overpowering men. This couldn’t be more wrong.
Radical stereotypes like these are paid attention to more than what the movement stands for. People often identify feminism with these radical people and beliefs, which can cause ruling out feminism all together.
All feminism wants to accomplish is equality for both sexes. In our society, we are brainwashed by the media to believe these stereotypes by telling us what to pay attention to and what to think about. The media is an example that only focuses on the negative stereotypes, and this is what people believe in.
I’m tired of the gender stereotypes women have to face and put up with everyday. One classic example is women being catcalled by men when walking down the street. Insulting, sexual phrases are given to women on a daily basis, while minding their own business. Men think that women walking down the street are there for their entertainment and visual purposes and can comment whatever they want.
Another example of stereotypes is doing something “like a girl” is a phrase that is constantly thrown around as an insult. When you do something “like a girl," it typically means you are doing it wrong or being offended. It’s as if referring to another person as a woman is the worst insult you could give to someone.
Before I knew anything about feminism, I never had a strong passion for anything. The most important thing feminism has taught me is to never devalue myself next to a man because I am a woman. Feminism has opened my eyes to seeing the world and valuing myself in a completely different way, and I am so grateful for that.
Feminism has taught me so many things, and because of it, I have become a stronger, more independent and empowered. I am so glad to have found feminism and to believe and care about something so powerful.
