I don’t know about you, Collegiettes, but I’m mad. No, it’s not because my eyeliner is uneven today. No, it’s not because I’m not part of a #squad. And for the love of all that is precious, no, it’s not because it’s “that time of the month.” I’m mad because we live in a sexist society where the word “feminist” is almost taboo, with some celebrities going as far as to distance themselves from the movement as far as they possibly can. Here are seven reasons why I need feminism in my life
1. Because my physical safety depends on it.
If the hashtag #MasculinitySoFragile has taught me anything, it’s just how concerned society is with fixing problems within women (heaven forbid your bra strap is showing, but we’ll get to that later), rather than addressing institutionalized problems.
2. Because many people refuse to acknowledge that sexism is even a thing.
The first step to solving a problem is by acknowledging there is one. By ignoring the ways society favors either men or women, we get further and further away from an inclusive and equal society.
3. Because Amber Rose had to break down why she’s not “DTF” if she’s wearing a miniskirt.
As she states in the video, Rose isn’t mad at men. Society has brought us up and taught us to judge a book, and its intentions, by its cover.
4. Because women in the workplace can be viewed as an “issue.”
As funny as this video is, it hit home for a lot of women—myself included. Even as a sales associate working for a chain clothing retail store, I get asked about my future all the time. Not in a “what are you going to do with your career?” way, but in more of a “how many kids are you planning on having?” kind of way.
5. Because school dress codes are getting ridiculous.
We hear this story all too often. Our solution to solving problems shouldn’t be to ignore them in completely ludicrous ways.
6. Because of everything Donald Trump says.
It’s still beyond me how anyone can take this “man” seriously. Politics aside, his constant and consistent attacks on women are detrimental to the equality of the sexes on so many levels.
7. Because my emotions are actually *gasp* valid.
Blaming my thoughts or actions on my period is actually incredibly insulting. No, I really meant what I said when you asked me if I like your shirt or not, and it’s hideous.
Let me be very clear—I’m not saying any of this to be hateful, and I’m speaking purely from my own experiences. As Chimamanda Ngozi Adiche says in the Beyonce song “***Flawless,” a feminist is, “a person who believes in the social, political, and economic equality of the sexes.” The list above reflects why we need feminism now more than ever.