In this trend report, I want to go over my thoughts on feminism and how it affects my life. Yes, this topic is a change from my usual “style” trend report, but I thought I would shake things up a bit. Feminism is on the rise right now. I mean it has been since back in the 1800’s, but it is becoming more common and mainstream. In the past, the term “feminism” has been associated with women’s groups who actively fight for our rights as women. Those women will protest or go to government offices and demand to have their voices heard. However, now I feel that times have changed and we are all becoming feminist in our “own” way.
What does in our “own” way mean? Well, I can only speak for myself and my observations. In social media and society, I see more female empowerment than I did in the past. I mean, we almost had a woman president, which is incredible. In the movies and television, there are more roles where women are leading characters that are female (Star Wars, Dr. Who, Wonder Woman, etc.). All of these changes are empowering and teaching the next generation equality.
In the Merriam Webster dictionary, it defines feminism as “the theory of political, economic, and social equality of the sexes.” I was brought up alongside three sisters and by a strong willed mother. The idea that we could potentially not be considered equally or fairly was not a concept in my house growing up. The idea of feminism didn’t hit me until I got older and into the corporate world. I currently work in a tech industry and the topic of “women in tech” is very hot right now.
Sometimes I wonder if the term “feminism” has a negative context. I once asked one of my girl friends if she considered herself a feminist. She was very into “women in tech” and equal rights, but when I asked her that question, she appeared offended. She quickly said “no” and looked like I just asked if she was “uncool,” as if the two descriptions were the same. When I asked this question, it was around the time in my life, where I was trying to understand what my thoughts were on feminism.
So what are my thoughts on feminism? Well, I believe in equality, which means everyone is equal regardless of sex, race, ethnicity, sexuality, or religion. I’m sure that goes beyond feminism, but I’ve seen inequality in my lifetime, and I’m ready for it to end. I’m a female, and I’m equal to males. I don’t expect special treatment as a woman, but my skills professionally need to compare equally amongst the skills of my peers (male or female). Recently, I’ve come across some instances where female coworkers had expected special treatment for women or tried to exclude men from feminism clubs, but this doesn’t sound like social equality in my opinion. However, I’m sure some people would disagree with me, and that’s ok.
In the end, feminism is something that has been relatively new to me, and I’m still trying to understand my feelings and stance on the subject. I’m not an active advocate, but still an advocate. In time, I’m sure that will change, but for right now I’m happy being awake and aware of the subject. Would I consider myself a feminist? Yes, I want equality for all.
Outfit Details
Topshop shirt (similar here) | Levis jeans | Eye Buy Direct glasses
This article is not sponsored by any of the brands mentioned above. They are my thoughts and preferences.
Photos by @cristaltapp
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