What does feminism mean to you? Feminism can have such a negative ideology because people don’t understand what it is. Some people see feminism as crazy women who think men are evil, which is NOT correct. Women and men both need to have the same understanding. Yet, a strong definition hasn’t been defined and taught.

Being curious about people’s ideas on the subject, I asked some college students what their thoughts are and why they’re feminist.

When Grace Doerfler, a junior at Marist College, was asked why feminism is important to her, she simply said, “Because equality is a human right.” There should not be a different standard for men and women in any aspect of life, especially when it comes to the workplace.

Feminism is about gender equality.

“People often have the misconception that being a feminist means you think women are superior to men, when in fact it means equality between men and women. There is no reason why anyone should be lesser than another human being and being a feminist means advocating for those equal rights,” said Bree Marion on why she is a feminist.

There should not be man-hating. Feminism is a theory of social equality and shouldn’t be an unpopular word.

Katie Zieker, a strong advocate for feminism, discussed the importance of her tattoo. “I got matching tattoos with my best friend because we got into feminism together,” Zieker said. “We are extremely proud to be women.”

Feminism is about staying true to what you believe in and enlightenment.

Lacy Catto, a minor in women's studies, said that, “I truly believe that it’s my duty to live a life where I am at an equal and level playing field, whether that be in school, my career or my everyday life, and for everyone, no matter what gender, age, sexuality, race, religion etc.” Catto knows she must stay firm to her beliefs to “hopefully lead by example so that one day, our society realizes the importance of equality and how much space it could make for change, love, and growth for our world.”

Feminism is about educating the people around you about gender issues.

Erik Garcia was asked to define feminism in his own words and he said, “A feminist is someone who believes that women and men should share the same opportunities and rights in every social aspect of life," which is pretty much the dictionary definition. He later goes on to state, “I think there’s just so much lack of education about sociology, women’s rights, and the very nuance of daily interactions that reinforce patriarchy and hegemonic masculinity.”

Ignorant people think it’s not a man’s issue, yet it is. If you have a daughter, sister or mom, don't you want them to have the same respect? There are just as many stereotypes with men as women. Feminism is understanding it’s not just a women's issue but a men’s issue as well. Men need to behind the movement too.

Remember, being cat-called doesn't make anyone feel pretty. Our expressions shouldn’t be too strong and never anti-man. Being a radical female isn’t a bad thing.