What is the first thought that comes to mind when you hear the word "feminist?" Many people assume that feminists are women who hate all men, or women that want to be above men.
Feminism can be defined as the political, economic, and social equality of the sexes. People have a false misconception that women want to be viewed higher than men, when that is not the case at all. Women want to be on an equal playing field as men.
Feminism raises awareness on issues such as gender stereotypes, equal pay, sexual harassment, domestic violence, and the list goes on. It also focuses on the oppression that minorities face.
When discussing Feminism many people say, "Well, what's the point, nothings going to change." This is a very pessimistic way of thinking. Although we won't see change in an instant it is still good to get your voice heard and make people aware of these issues. If women like Malala Yousafzai thought this way, she would have never made such an impact with helping other girls in Pakistan receive an education.
There are many people that say, "I believe in equality but not feminism." The funny thing is that feminism is all about equality, so why are people afraid of the word feminist? Is it because they don't want women to be more powerful than men?
Another topic that feminism raises concern over is the constant objectification and sexualizing of women, while men get praised for their skill or talent. We see this on many magazines. Female artist will be seen in barely any clothing while male artists are in suits. Women are constantly treated as objects in society. Feminism isn't aimed to make women stronger, because we are already strong, we just want society to know this and view us in this way.
Gender stereotypes don't only affect women, they affect men too. Men are viewed as weak if they express their emotions because it's not viewed as "masculine", and women are viewed as overly emotional.
Feminists are also concerned with rape culture. Women are constantly taught how to not get raped. They are shamed for what they wear rather than blaming the rapist them self. We need to learn that, no means no. In any situation, it doesn't matter if he or she is drunk, and it doesn't matter how revealing their outfit is.
A big issue that feminists want to draw attention to is the wage gap. Women are payed less than men for the same work, women of color are paid even less. Latina women make about 56 cents to a white mans dollar. It is ridiculous that we both can do the same amount of work, yet still get paid less because of our gender.
Of course with every movement there is always some members who are very radical and give the movement a bad name. We shouldn't let these people warp our views, we should do our own research and make an informed decision. I am a feminist, and you should be one too.
