Feminist: adjective, 1. advocating social, political, legal, and economic rights for women equal to those of men. noun 2. an advocate of such rights.
I can’t count the number of people in my life that think the word “feminist” is a dirty word. It conjures up ideas of man bashing, bra burning, and a general disgust for any and all actions by men. Even my best friend thinks that the word feminist shouldn’t be used to describe women, including herself. That being said, whether or not she wants to name herself feminist is moot, because she is one.
My friend has a 4 year-old daughter who I am over the moon about. I honestly can’t even express how much I love this little girl and want her to grow up strong in mind and body. In my eyes, that starts with making her a strong girl, who can become an even stronger woman.
About a week ago I mentioned to my friend that I was going to help her raise a feminist which started a bit of a debacle. However, once I explained what I meant by that, she fully understood why this gorgeous little girl needed to be a feminist asap.
Feminism is not about hating others, it’s about being equality. Supporting it, striving for it and more importantly not fearing it. By raising our sons and daughters to be feminists we are helping to make a stronger society full of people who respect one another and support each other.
One of the first things I taught this little woman was a very simple phrase courtesy of Beyonce. When I say “Who run the world? You say, GIRLS!”
Who run the world? GIRLS!!!!
Phrase number two may be a little more difficult for a young lady of 4, “I am a feminist.” I will teach her to be proud of this word, that it is not disgusting or vial, and that it does not mean hatred. One day, she will be running this world, and many little boys and girls just like her. This little girl will be strong and proud of who she is, and I am simply loving that I can help develop that strength.
in omnia paratus 