Recently, I have questioned the relevance of feminism and women’s rights in the modern-day culture; more women are adopting the mentality of being strong and independent.
Last week my mom asked what feminism meant to me.
For my mother growing up, feminism was about women leaving their children at home to pursue careers.
For many women this may not be a bad thing in reality. In the eyes of my mother who stayed home with my sister and me because she desired to do so, the idea of the 1970’s feminism wasn’t something that my mother desired.
If someone wants to stay home with their children, then they should be able to do that because she wants to.
For me, feminism is about equality and understanding that if I want to achieve something, I can do that and not let my gender or circumstances dictate what I can and cannot do.
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, feminism is “A belief in the social, political and economic equality of the sexes.”
During the recent presidential election, millions of women and some men stood up to speak out for women’s rights and equality.
After multiple debates on contraception and women across the U.S. stood together and decided that their voice would be heard.
Not only are women behind the modern feminist movement, men have been joining alongside in the quest for gender equality.
Well-known male media figures who have stood up for gender equality and women’s rights include Anderson Cooper, Andy Samberg and Seth Green, according to an article on feministing.com.
Even though President Barack Obama was re-elected, the election was truly won by women across the nation.
The voices of millions of Americans standing up together to speak out for women’s rights and equality, have stepped forward as a nation to bridge the gender gap.
White males are now becoming a minority in the House Democratic Caucus. There will be 20 female U.S. Senators in 2013 and New, Hampshire will boast the nations first all-female congressional delegation, according to timenewsfeed.com
I was given the opportunity to speak with some students involved in the Muslim Students Association on campus about the traditional hijabs (headscarves) that they wear.
After listening to stories of strength and tradition, I understood that the hijabs that women wear represent strength and freedom in the Islamic culture.
After a battle of more than 100 years, the idea that women are beginning to root themselves in local, national and global politics is mind boggling and inspiring.
By understanding that feminism is not about burning bras and hating men, but the realization that stereotypes and discrimination should be abolished. We are paving the way for future revolutionary changes through unification and understanding.
The education gained from being a part of this modern feminist movement has helped me to realize that no one should obstruct me from achieving my aspirations.
If I want to wear a great red lipstick along the way, I won’t be a hypocritical, self-absorbed feminist; I will just look and feel great while changing the world.
Oppression and freedom are different to every woman but true freedom comes from happiness.
