My own definition of a feminist is a man or a woman who says, ‘Yes, there’s a problem with gender as it is today and we must fix it, we must do better.’
All of us, women and men, must do better.
Wow. What an amazing, quick read.
As of very recently (a few years from now I would say) I have begun to identify as a feminist. Like Ms. Adichie said, I too initially associated this word to something negative. No, I am not a feminist, I would think. I can’t be that angry woman who is constantly complaining. No. That can’t be me. It is a misconception I find myself fighting on a daily basis.
Yes, I am a feminist. No, I am not angry all the time (though I won’t lie I have a terrible temper).
Oh, you’re a feminist, people say. There is worry and maybe a little disgust in their voice.
I have been conditioned since birth to be and think a certain way. I am not married. I do not like to wear make up most of the time. I don’t dress to attract the male gaze. All of this has made me a ‘bad woman’. This is all bullshit. Now I am focusing on reprogramming my brain to see these things as ok. It doesn’t mean I am less worthy than anyone else. It just means I am me. Regardless of gender, looks, lack of make up (or an abundance of it) I deserve respect.
I am not as eloquent as Ms. Adichie so please, read this. Read this now. Like Navessa said, it should be required reading.
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