Feminism 101: Gender equality not female superiority

For most, feminism is an unwelcoming movement. It is a common misconception that feminism is a fight between men and women, when in fact men can be the most influential and powerful players for women’s rights, and for a resolution in equality. For this reason, it is important that everyone feels welcome to contribute to the feminist movement rather than remaining on the defense. Realizing that you have power to create change is the first step of becoming a feminist ally. If you aren’t doing anything, if you are remaining silent, you are only contributing to the problem.

The more you learn about women’s rights issues, the clearer it is that they are immersed in a spider web of issues surrounding our society.  The following is a short list of ways you can be an ally to women in your life and contribute to equality:

1. Forget your preconceptions. If you want to help, you need to forget what you think you know about feminism. For a change to occur, you need to drop your baggage at the door, listen, and learn.

2. Recognize your privilege, no matter what the privilege may be. Your social class, gender, and race may all put you at an advantage over your neighbour; recognize that everyone is not on the playing field. Be thankful, not defensive for the privilege you have.

3. Watch what you say. Everything from sexist jokes to catcalling. Regardless of your intentions, your words can show a lack of respect. Sexism is perpetuated by people who don’t necessarily mean harm, through small and insignificant actions like whistling at a girl on the street. If, and when, you slip up, be able to catch yourself, and see that what you say about women is a reflection of the respect that you have for them.

4. Flirt appropriately. There is a fine line between flirting and harassment, and you should know the difference depending on the situation you’re in. Most importantly, know when to not flirt or stop flirting; no means no.

5. Many men are unknowingly contributing to rape culture. Our society trends towards victim blaming and slut shaming. If you don’t understand what they are and that they are everywhere in our society, you have likely played a part in it at some point in your life. If you don’t want to be a rape statistic, ask for consent.

6. Question pop-culture. Consider that the woman on the front cover of a magazine is promoting an unhealthy body image, is defining women’s sexuality, and is likely unrecognizable when not photo shopped. You might be reinforcing this type of “perfection.”  Western culture is obsessed with how we look, and this is largely driven by pop-culture and money.

7. Listen. Giving the opportunity for a woman to tell you about her experiences and struggles is the most important step of being an ally. Let go of the tendency to defend what other people have done to oppress women, and take the time to listen. Giving a voice to women in oppression is essential to progress.

8. Challenge sexism. Have you ever played along with a joke that you knew was offensive? This point cannot be repeated enough: remaining silent adds to the problem. Not partaking in sexism is insufficient. To be an ally to women, you need to challenge sexism.

9. Consider how you were raised and the gender roles that you have become accustomed to. Consider that male stereotypes are contributing to the problem, too. Challenge gender roles and specifically, and redefine masculinity. Men should be allowed to cry, show emotions, and go on paternity leave.

10. Acknowledge your stance. There is a strong tendency, especially for men, to claim neutrality in feminism, but you can play a major role in ending women’s oppression. Educate yourself about problems around the world and familiarize yourself with the complexity of the issue. If you agree with the most fundamental aspects of equality, claim the feminist title.