What Does Feminism Mean To You?

In certain spaces, the word feminist/feminism connotes angry, bra-burning women, holding pitchforks and wielding ‘WE HATE MEN’ placards.

There seems to be this misconception that feminism is a big propaganda – see a quote by Pat Robertson below:

The feminist agenda is not about equal rights for women. It is about a socialist, anti-family political movement that encourages women to leave their husbands, kill their children, practice witchcraft, destroy capitalism, and become lesbians.”

When I see quotes like this, I can’t help but chuckle!

Feminism, when broken down to its core, is simple – it’s about gender parity. The aim of feminism is to create a world where being a woman doesn’t limit your chances in whatever you want to achieve.

Even though it may feel like the ‘feminist movement’ started gaining traction recently – it actually dates back to the eighteenth century!

Since the beginning of time, women have been advocating for better opportunities and doing groundbreaking things. One of my favourite books to read which highlights the incredible things women have done through history is the ‘Goodnight Stories For Rebel Girls’ series (you can buy them on Amazon – book 1 and book 2).

I get asked a lot why I identify as a feminist and what feminism means to me.

Feminism only has one definition, but it means different things to different people. Listening to these meanings is essential to understanding what the movement has done and can do for humanity.

Feminism, to me, is a society where there is equal opportunity for men and women – regardless of race, socioeconomic status, ability, or sexual orientation.

A world where gender stereotypes are broken.

A world where a woman isn’t forced to choose to be one or the other – why can’t she be both?.

A world where you’re allowed to embrace your sexuality.

A world where it’s ok to be a career-driven woman or a stay at home mum.

A world where a woman is allowed to be whatever version of herself that she chooses to be.

A world where boys aren’t told to be boys and girls aren’t expected to always be in pink and frilly dresses.

Feminism, to me, is standing up and speaking up when something isn’t right.

It is having a voice at the table.

Feminism is us collectively creating a world where gender will not define how big you can dream.

Whether you’re a man, woman or identify with any other gender across the spectrum, I hope together we can create a change in the world. It starts with you.

My name is Amina, I am a feminist, and I would like to ask what feminism means to you?