MT: Feminism - Page 2

Feminism has been stolen and twisted into something that propagates unnecessary hate. White feminists are predominantly racists against other women and radicalised too. If you cant support and empower all women regardless of race, creed, religion, the idealogy holds meaning. I no longer associate with feminism. I will support people who need it and who are wronged regardless of their gender.

It's a time-tested strategy. When you want to devalue a movement, you change the meaning of the movement itself. so you can say "feminism is supposed to be about equality but what it actually means is female supremacy" or something stupid like that. Then you repeat it often enough so that stupid people start believing you. And just like that, "feminism" is a dirty word. Which is ridiculous. Feminism means equality. Reclaim the word. Don't let people gaslight you into thinking it means something else.

Personally, I am a feminist and proud to be one. I wish everyone were a feminist and proud to be one.

For me, feminism is very simple; it is about equality for all human beings. It is about holding everyone to the same standards and ensuring everyone has equitable freedom of choice and opportunity in society. I know I am not perfect, and sometimes, I may not act in an equitable way, but I do strive to be.

It isn't very narrow like women helping women. Anyone can be a feminist, including men. And active helping isn't necessary. Some people do not have the means or power to help. Sometimes, what matters is not pulling down.

Unfortunately, sometimes feminism is used for the wrong things. Feminism means supporting a woman's choice. So, if a woman wants to be a housewife, wear a hijab, or fast for her husband - that is her choice, and we should support that choice. I do struggle with this at times. Similarly, if a woman wants to be a sex worker, make p0rn etc. It is her choice. Feminism also does not mean putting down men. Of course, if a man does something wrong, we should hold him accountable. Violence, sexual assault, eve teasing, and harassment are always wrong, irrespective of who does it. We call out women who may do the same, too. I could go on and on.

Anyway, some men and women hesitate to be identified as feminists because of some of the negative things done by some bad-faith actors in the name of feminism. It is sad and unfortunate.

I wish I could change their minds. And once upon a time, I would have fought tooth and nail to change their mind. But words are just words. What matters is action. What matters is treating everyone equally. So if someone says they are a feminist and looks down on the choices of other women or treats men inequitably - they are not a feminist. And if someone does not want to label themselves feminist but does their best to treat everyone fairly - they are better people, in my opinion.

So, personally, I would take it case by case. What was the situation? What seems equitable in that situation? And did someone act equitably or not.