fem·i·nism: \ˈfe-mə-ˌni-zəm\ (noun): The theory of the political, economic and social equality of the sexes.
Feminism. Despite the many meanings people associate with feminists and feminism, the meaning of the word itself simply is one of equality. It is the idea that women should be treated as equals to men. Equal treatment. Literally, that's all it is. It doesn't seem so crazy to me, it actually seems logical, fair even. So, why exactly are people, especially women, so scared to call themselves feminists?
Recently, I've seen celebrities, like Sarah Jessica Parker and Kim Kardashian, make headlines for denying that they are feminists. In an interview with BlogHer, Kim states she doesn't like labels and doesn't consider herself a free-the-nipple type of girl, and for that reason she doesn't label herself as a feminist, although she does support women. I have to admit, I was surprised to hear her reasoning considering she is so largely known for her nude selfies.
As for SJP, she calls herself a humanist. She claims she is tired of the separation, she supports all. And I must say, I was slightly disappointed by this, (and not just because she's still Carrie Bradshaw in my eyes) but because I feel like it was a cop out. She believes it's not just about women anymore, which, she's right, it's not. I not only admire her desire to help everyone reach equality, I agree with it. But, as a human, I believe I'm not limited to just one title. I can be a feminist and still want equal rights for other groups of people. I root for everyone. I respect her idea of inclusion, and I, too, am tired of separation. But that is exactly the reason I consider myself to be a feminist. I am so, so tired of the separation of women from men, of the distance from 78 cents to the dollar.
I haven't always considered myself to be feminist. I, like Kim K., was scared to attach this label to myself. What did it actually mean? Would people think I hated men? Would I have to throw out all my razors in protest? When asked if I was one, I never really knew how to reply. I found myself giving a partial yes, but always clarifying so people didn't think I was a super intense crazy kind of feminist that is typically thought of when this specific f bomb is dropped. I was once nervous about all the assumptions people would put on me once I had I put the one of feminist on myself.
To clarify: No, I don't hate men. And no, I didn't trash all my razors, burn my bras, or feel like I had to throw out my heels. If that's what some women chose to do, great for them. But it is important that people know that is not the definition of feminism. That is not what it has to be.
All the stereotypes and assumptions, they are unfairly linked with a title that simply means that women want to have equal pay for equal work, the same opportunities as men, the same protection, the same care.
I am not here to convince everyone to become a feminist, nor am I trying to tell Kim Kardashian or any other person their opinion is wrong. Everyone is entitled to what they believe. All I'm saying is: if you root for equality for women, don't be scared to call yourself what you are. Don't be scared of the F-word. Embrace it. You're a feminist.
