As of late, feminism is viewed as the oppression of man. This interpretation contradicts what feminism actually is.
Although they might not match the term with its definition, many agree with the ideology of true feminism— social, political and economic equality of the sexes. So, they choose not to brand themselves as feminists.
Amanda Salas, a self-proclaimed feminist and biomedical science junior, believes the country is beginning to reflect a greater appreciation for the female role in society.
“Right now, it’s a pretty good time to be a woman,” Salas said. “Back then, women weren’t even allowed to go to college. (Women) couldn’t pursue… literally anything—besides being a mother.”
Only through persistence and acts of civil disobedience have women gained some of the advantage’s men were first granted, such as the right to vote and equal job opportunities.
With such rights, many believe that equality has been achieved and that the need for feminism no longer exists.
“Why still talk about feminism,” one may wonder.
Perhaps some don’t consider themselves feminist because of how the group is portrayed in society. Images of man-hating, cosmetic-protesting and frumpy women with body hair might immediately come to mind.
Feminist activists, however, agree that feminism needs to be understood properly.
“People tend to believe that it means ‘Women superiority over me’ or ‘Women who hate men’ and that’s wrong,” said Hector Nieva, a UTRGV art education junior. “It’s, [the] opposite. It’s the equality amongst genders … especially in our culture, you know, being in a (Hispanic) community.”
I’ve noticed this myself. We are part of a culture that emphasizes a male’s place as “head of the household” and discourages the expression of our emotions.
Others agree with some of the pillars of feminism, but are opposed to ideas deemed “too radical.”
Operations Specialist Seaman Cohen Ray Reyes said that while he considers himself to be a feminist, he does not support some of the ideologies. One of which is the phrase, “All men are rapists,” which is used by some extremists during rallies.
When an individual declares themselves a feminist, there is an expectation of supporting equal rights and treatment for everyone— not generalizing a gender. Slandering the opposite sex with words like, “All men are rapists” is an attack on anyone who identifies as male. Furthermore, it only drives them away from supporting feminism.
“Like Bob Dylan said, ‘The times (they) are a-changin’,” said Reyes. “Issues then (during the suffrage movement) are way different from issues today that women are facing.”
Social media is a prime example of discrimination. I’ve heard about female gamers who make their living off of YouTube feeling obligated to show cleavage or other parts of their body just to get views. Male gamers, however, do not need to rely on their appearance in order to generate traffic for their channel. Often, they wear the same ratty, faded t-shirt for several videos and never seem to be called out.
For this reason, and many others, feminism is still needed.
True equality has not yet been achieved by society. Perhaps it will never be.
There are too many conflicting ideas in the world preventing men and women to be viewed the same that the thought of such is beyond human understanding.
The sooner we accept that, the better. Once society learns to accept the fundamental differences, we may achieve greater peace.
Coming to an understanding is like a relationship, dedication and hard work.
