Feminism: “the advocacy of women’s rights on the basis of the equality of the sexes”

  Feminism is something that unites women throughout the world for various reasons. Whether it is fighting for gender equality, empowering women about their bodies and beauty, having a place where you can be understood about anything including sensitive topics such as sexual assault or violence, or reminding women that they are worth more than the stereotypes against them. Feminism is more than a movement; it is a welcoming family for women to be understood and heard. 

  While feminism is such an amazing movement, some people have interpreted it in an incorrect way. Unfortunately, these people have been in the spotlight and the face of speaking about the feminist movement, leading people to misinterpret feminism. Many women who are in the spotlight of the feminist movement say things like “I hate men” or “kill all men.” which is the opposite of what feminism is.

  Sophomore Muftada Abdulwahab says, “When I hear the word feminist, the first thing that comes to mind is an angry group of women screaming ‘kill all men.’ While I am a feminist myself and I strongly support feminism, I think that some women take feminism to the extreme and don’t show feminism the way it really is.”

  This is absolutely NOT what feminism is; not even CLOSE. Feminism is all about people being treated equally including men. True feminism also applies to men. Feminism is completely against the horrible stereotypes put on men, such as them being big and tough and not showing any emotion.

  Feminism is meant to be something amazing that makes our world a better place. It is definitely not supposed to be something that brings men down, hurts them, or scares them. Feminism is meant to be a welcoming place for everyone. Abdulwahab strongly states, “We need the right form of feminism to help women get equal rights and equal pay. We need the right form of feminism so the next generation of women grows up in a more equal, safe, and welcoming environment. I think actual feminists are necessary everywhere.”

  It is very sad that feminism is being portrayed in such a negative way all over the world and that is why I have created the Feminist Club at Millbrook High School. As a feminist, it is my job to spread true feminism where I can and make a welcoming community for everyone. The Feminist Club has both male and female members ready to be a part of an amazing and empowering community. Freshmen Humberto Cabrera, a member of the Feminist Club, states, “I am joining the Feminist Club to be a small part of the big change towards gender equality. Women deserve to be paid the same as men. I also want to be a part of the true welcoming community that feminism gives us. I am excited to be a part of the club.”