In this era where people are claiming themselves as ‘feminists’, they have somewhere gotten the definition or the exact meaning of feminism inaccurate. Feminism is not about demeaning or disparage the other gender. It purely means equality of both the genders in every aspect. To put this in a layman language, the belief that women should be allowed the same rights, power, and opportunities as men and be treated in the same way, or the set of activities intended to achieve this state is termed as feminism.
To believe in feminism or to be a feminist, you needn’t necessarily be a female. You can belong of any gender, support any political party, belong from any religion, caste or creed, and still be a feminist. It all sums down on respecting, treating, and giving equal opportunities to both the genders.
These days, to make one understand the concept of feminism is becoming a challenge, all thanks to patriarchy and misogynistic atmosphere in and around our society. While we women are touching the skies, the society has just one thing to say – “what’s the use of all this when eventually you have to get married and have kids!” This change is what I’m talking about.
If a man can have 3 children, go on vacations, and still be the CEO of a company, so can a woman. A CEO’s chair doesn’t see gender, it demands capabilities and dedication. Now that we’re broadly speaking about feminism, I’d like to highlight some facts or pointers about how it is becoming delusional amongst us.
1. Feminism is only about supporting women:
Feminism is not only about supporting women but treating both the genders equal. People often confuse or misinterpret feminism with being a feminazi.
2. Feminism is all about humiliating men:
Here’s where we all go wrong. If our basics of a concept are not clear, how can we jump directly to conclusions? Feminism is not about derogating the other gender, but to ensure and encourage both the genders to enjoy equal rights, opportunities, and treatment. Whether on a professional or a personal front, feminism must be implied and executed.
3. Feminism is for the weak:
This is where typical mentalities come into the picture. Believing in feminism or being one doesn’t make you weak. It makes you a broad-minded individual who stands for morality and is brave enough to raise their voice against anything wrong.
4. Riot about being a feminist:
I’m a feminist too but I have never initiated or participated in any such riots. Funny how people assume things and change the entire concept. If you believe in it, let your actions speak louder than words.
5. Social media outcry:
Adding “feminist” in your Instagram or Twitter bio won’t make you one. I’ve seen many youngsters, both men and women overusing or misusing this term to an extent that it becomes a part of their identity. Being a feminist is not supposed to be a part of your identity, it is about belief and virtue of oneself. If you see gender discrimination, moral iniquity, or come across a misogynistic individual, rather than ignoring them, correct them. That’s how our outlook towards feminism and various other things will change.
These are some common delusions that I keep on hearing or encountering time and again from various people, regardless of their gender. This women’s day, I would not like to celebrate it by distributing sweets or giving another speech about women empowerment. This year, let’s try something new. Let’s inculcate feminism in our children who are now in pigtails and school uniforms, let’s make the elders understand about this very concept, and most importantly, let us accept that both men and women can change the world!
Here’s wishing all you feminists a very happy women’s day!
The writer is Ms.Krupa Shah a Contemporary artist (Views are personal)
