Girls, why are women who don't want to date praised for their independence, but men who do the same are labelled misogynists?

Anonymous
I have heard several female acquaintances express that they don't want to date, and they always have the full backing of all their friends, family and classmates, including me.

I have said on some occasions that I don't want to date either. I was subsequently accused of misogynistic behaviour, and told that I was unfairly punishing women. A lot of men I know who have chosen to remain single (and who are not woman hating lunatics) have been called sexist and even compared to misogynistic mass murderers.

For the record, I'm not a member of MGTOW or anything, nor do I blame women for my celibacy. I'm not an incel. I suppose I might be called a voluntary celibate.

Why are we so hated for seeking the same independence that many women are seeking?
Girls, why are women who don't want to date praised for their independence, but men who do the same are labelled misogynists?
2 Opinion