Positive Lessons That Feminism Taught Me

samhradh_leannan

Feminism is a controversial subject these days, and that's understandable. The movement is currently associated with misandry, hate, and general negativity between the genders. This myTake is not intended to delegitimize those very real problems, or to promote misandry or any other negative impact that feminism can have. It is intended to shed some light on the positive influences that feminism can have when it is used for good, and to help show why some people still view feminism as beneficial (at least when used properly) and may be reluctant to completely turn against it.

I grew up with the idea of feminism as a positive notion, and feminism played an important role in shaping my values, beliefs, and ideas about society and the world. I don't always consider myself a feminist- it's hard to be sure how to define feminism these days- but I personally experienced feminism in a very positive way while growing up. Throughout my life I've been taught many lessons under the banner of feminism that I'm still very grateful for.

Positive Lessons That Feminism Taught Me

1. Being female is not a weakness...

Females can be strong, smart, capable individuals, and being female or feminine doesn't mean being weak, frail, or helpless. Even the "softer" traits that are associated with femininity- compassion, nurturing, and emotional sensitivity- are important strengths in their own way. Plus, those traits are not exclusive to women. Men and women both have the capacity to be strong, brave, kind, and sensitive.

2... and it doesn't make me a victim.

Both genders have challenges and struggles that they have to face. Being female definitely has its challenges and frustrations, but women are not victims simply because of their gender. Neither are men. Every person has their cross to bear, and every person is responsible for making the best of their situation, including women.

3. Female biology is not gross, shameful, or taboo.

Positive Lessons That Feminism Taught Me

Feeling like your own body is the enemy or something to be ashamed of can be very traumatizing, especially when it comes to menstruation. Girls grow up sneaking tampons to the restroom in their sleeves, living in fear that a leak will give away their secret, going to crazy lengths to hide any evidence of their period just to avoid subjecting someone to the horror of being reminded that menstruation exists. Learning to accept that my body and my period are natural, normal, and nothing to be ashamed of has been a huge relief and incredibly freeing.


4. Being female does not entitle me to special treatment.

Positive Lessons That Feminism Taught Me

Equal rights and opportunities come with equal responsibilities, and nobody is entitled to anything just because of their gender. Basic politeness is important, but chivalry is outdated. Now that women typically have their own careers and incomes, there's no reason for them to expect men pay for them on dates or do certain favors for them just because they're a woman. This goes for romantic relationships, friendships, and any other type of interaction between the genders. When dating, couples should split the bill, take turns paying, or establish a system that works for both parties based on what each person can afford, not based on gender.

5. Sexual relationships should be mutual and fair.

Both men and women have needs that should be met in a relationship- emotional, physical, intellectual. Women deserve to have their sexual needs met just as much as men do, and sex should be mutually enjoyable and satisfying for both partners. Every person has the right to make their own choices about sex, and to enjoy their sexuality fully, regardless of their gender.

6. Fighting for change can work.

Positive Lessons That Feminism Taught Me

The success feminism has had so far has shown me that fighting for change can be effective, and that's very empowering. The important thing going forward is to use that power for good, to help make the world a better place for every person who lives in it.

Image sources:

lookingfordiagnosis.com

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best.cf.ac.uk

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Positive Lessons That Feminism Taught Me
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