When exactly did feminism become a bad word? Was it Rush Limbaugh and his 'femi-nazi' characterization of intelligent women? Or did the younger generation shy away from second wave feminism? (Ironically, this same generation was able to make this choice due to the activism of earlier feminists). I've always proudly called myself a feminist and have never seen it as a pejorative term, but know many (educated, successful, intelligent) women who would never self-identify as feminists.
I found this comic on the blog Fudge This Sugar, which has great images but even better discussions. I can't tell you how many times I've had this exact conversation with people. Be sure to read the comments for a fascinating discussion about gender identity.
Yep, You're a Feminist
What do you think? Do you consider yourself a feminist? Why or why not?
As a son of a mother, a husband of a wife, and the father of daughters, I not only think that woman should have the same rights as men. I say they absolutely deserve and should demand those same rights. As a man, I am certain that I have always been a good feminist, but I am learning each and every day.
ReplyDeleteI'll admit it-I'm a feminist!
ReplyDeleteOddly enough, the same type of thing is happening around those who identify as gay, or more accurately, those who do not identify as gay. I think there's something to the point that you raise about the anti-feminists (and anti-gay) winning the battle of defining the word. For many, it has such a negative connotation, when it shouldn't!
-Thom Shepard