I’ve talked a lot about feminist issues over the years (and even rounded up some cool feminist fashions!) and, honestly, it’s become one of my passions, especially as I try to navigate this new, post-Election society that can seem downright confusing at times. But I’m wondering: What does feminism mean to you?
I’m forever thinking about this question. I turn it over in my head constantly in an attempt to come to some sort of simple definition — one that suits me and that I can easily wrap my head around. Maybe it’s because I’m sort of obsessed with having some kind of order in my life.
And yet, I’m not sure that something like feminism, which is so important and affects so many people, has a one-size-fits-all definition. At its core, it’s rooted in women being equal to men, so there’s that foundation of equality. But I also think in practice, the concept goes far deeper than that. Feminism is about a society where women are valued and supported and heard. That last one is especially important — feminism is about women having a voice and not being afraid to use that voice. They can be themselves and speak their minds. We all know I’ve had lots of experience with speaking my mind lately, and it hasn’t always been met with support and kindness.
Elisabeth Moss, who took home an Emmy last night for her outstanding performance in The Handmaid’s Tale, once had this to say about feminism, which I think is incredibly spot-on…
“As a woman, now, you have to speak up. You have to own it [feminism] in a way that you never have before. It is different now.”
Even though our society might not be in the most ideal of feminist places right now, that doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t keep striving to get there. One of the worst things we can do — both for us and for the next generation of young women and men — is throw our hands in the air and just give up because things seem too hard or too insurmountable. That’s not who we are. And that’s most definitely not who we want to be, is it?
So…how would you define feminism in 2017, friends? What are the most important aspects of it? Where do you hope to see feminism in 5, 10, even 20 years from now? I’d love for you to share your thoughts in the comments!! #BeBraveBeYou… xoxo
[Photo via We Heart It]
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Catherine DePino says
I went to college (Temple) in the sixties when we were in the vanguard of the feminist movement. Sad to say, there hasn’t been the progress that many of us expected. To me, feminism means more than equal rights for women. It means that all people (men and women alike) should respect women as worthy, intelligent human beings. Many women do not have self-respect. They do not believe in themselves; consequently, they do not believe women should hold leadership positions. I believe that this is part of the reason this president is in office. Many women became this way because of indoctrination by parents, religious leaders, and societal institutions. I hope all women will band together, realize their self-worth and ability to contribute to society, and know how truly powerful they are. Sisterhood is indeed powerful.
MelissaBlake says
Hi, Catherine — you raise so many good points, especially about women lacking self-respect!!
Catherine DePino says
Thanks, Melissa. This is a real concern to me and many other women. I’m hoping we can turn things around. This election can motivate women to get a new mindset. Thanks for calling these important issues to our attention.
Emily says
I love this. We do have to use our voices more than ever before and we have to help others understand what feminism is really about.
Laura says
To me, feminism is about choice. The freedom for women to be and do what they want, be it raising children or building a career. Also the freedom to enjoy things thought of as “feminine” if that’s what you like, or “masculine” things, or both (also the freedom for males to enjoy both feminine or masculine things, if they want). There is so much confusion out there about feminism, which is so frustrating.