By: Jamie Thompson
Updated: Dec. 20, 2023
Originally Published: Dec. 13, 2023
Growing up, I had this wild notion that feminists were just a bunch of angry, makeup-free, childless women marching in the streets, hell-bent on banishing men to some underground lair. If you were raised in a conservative household or town—maybe even both—you might relate. It took a college professor to help me shake off that ridiculous stereotype.
During an English composition class, we analyzed a magazine ad featuring a woman whose hands were bound by a gold necklace, symbolizing oppression. At 22, I scoffed and asked, “What are you, a feminist?” with an air of sarcasm, as if the term was synonymous with lunacy. To my surprise, he replied calmly, “Yes, I am.”
That straightforwardness hit me hard. I respected this guy, and after some serious reflection, I realized that men could indeed be feminists. It’s not a cult or some crazy movement filled with hatred for men. Rather, feminism is about advocating for equality in pay, safety, and opportunities for women.
Feminism is all about ensuring that everyone—regardless of gender—acknowledges the value of all individuals. It’s about creating a world where everyone can thrive based on their skills and passions, where hard work truly counts. It’s recognizing women as capable and insightful participants in all aspects of life—family, work, politics, and beyond.
Women are incredibly strong, intelligent, and passionate. They contribute meaningful ideas to any discussion, and if you agree with that, then congratulations, you’re already thinking like a feminist.
You see, being a feminist doesn’t come with a dress code. You can be a stay-at-home mom or a career woman. You can choose to wear makeup or not. You can be a husband and a father and still embrace feminist ideals. If you’re a woman who wants to be heard and valued, you are aligning yourself with feminism.
This conversation is especially crucial today in America, where there’s a push to downplay the need for equality. Some insist that women should be satisfied with the status quo, and any demand for equal pay or opportunities is seen as problematic. But that’s a load of nonsense—don’t fall for it.
What’s genuinely frightening is watching my single mother struggle after my father left us. She was left to shoulder the full weight of raising three kids—emotionally and financially—because my dad opted out of responsibility, and society brushed it off. She worked a low-paying job during the day and cleaned houses at night just to keep us fed.
I’ve also felt fear when counseling young survivors of sexual assault, who were terrified to come forward due to a culture of victim-blaming. And I worry for my daughters—wondering if they will have the chance to reach their full potential in a safe world.
Ultimately, feminism aims to change these realities. It’s about shifting mindsets, laws, and societal norms so that women don’t have to struggle like my mom did to make a living. It’s about ensuring that women can consent to sexual activity, with that consent respected, and backed by the law. It’s about empowering girls so their worth is defined by their abilities, not their gender.
Feminism advocates for a fair shot at life, liberty, and happiness for all women.
Now, I know someone might be rolling their eyes, thinking, “But I’m a woman and I don’t feel oppressed.” Good for you! But being a feminist means recognizing that your experience isn’t universal. It’s about empathy and understanding that many women face real dangers, like being assaulted and then blamed for it, while their perpetrators walk away with minimal consequences.
Feminism holds everyone—mothers and fathers alike—to the same standards in parenting and financial support. It’s about nurturing our children to respect and value everyone.
At the end of the day, feminism isn’t a dirty word. It’s not something to fear. It’s about open-mindedness and allowing people to flourish, regardless of gender. If that resonates with you, congratulations—you might just be a feminist.
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In summary, feminism is about recognizing the importance of equality and the shared responsibility of all genders in fostering a fair society. It encourages us to be aware of the broader context of women’s experiences, advocating for a world where everyone can thrive.