When the pandemic first hit the U.K there was a narrative of unity — a message flooded the country stating that “we” could get through this so that “we” could all get back to normal.

Now, the distinction between the local lockdowns in the North compared to those in the South are highlighting the inequalities which have existed for years.

Seeking control from the South

Many areas in the north are demanding they seek control from Westminster — an area which appears to have minimal connection to areas outside of the South. …

When I first started reading into feminist literature and essays, it became apparent to me that the movement was also a heavy critic of capitalist exploitation.

As a feminist, I felt like it came hand in hand with fighting for a more egalitarian world. One that is free and equitable. Now, it seems like the movement once deemed “unattractive” is supplying cooperations with neoliberal ideas, allowing new forms of exploitation and inequality.

I’m becoming increasingly worried that capitalism is using feminist ideas to build a liaison with those who want to build a free-market society. …

Over the years, amazing steps have been taken to tackle the issue of gender inequality in the workplace. This comes in the form of maternity/paternity rights, the #MeToo movement has shined a light on sexual assault in the workplace, and the gender pay gap is (slowly) being closed.

Alongside this, there has also been a drive to see more women in executive positions. Yet despite all these efforts, a woman’s appearance still greatly affects her — to a much higher degree than her male counterparts.

What is lookism?

In short terms, this is the discrimination and prejudice that people cast on somebody, on…

In case you missed the recent drama, Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak is now suggesting that those who work in the arts should find other jobs, as they cannot “expect” to be doing the same as they were at the start of the pandemic. This idea of adaption seems extremely rich from a man who married into a family of billionaires — if it was that easy to adapt for everybody, we would. One can dream. His comments wouldn’t have been received as negatively if he wasn’t overtly ignoring how much the arts contribute to the British economy —…

It’s an argument that is all too common in the far-right sphere — “it’s freedom of speech”. Usually thrown around after sexist, racist, homophobic opinions have been shared. Sure, freedom of speech does exist — we can say whatever we want about various topics. For example, somebody may not like the same music as me or even hate my tattoos. That’s fine.

However, if your words directly oppress and threaten somebody’s way of life, no matter how many times you use the argument “freedom of speech”, it just cannot, in my opinion, be called “free” when it keeps human beings…

Feminism has become something of a trend in the marketing world. Yes, a movement constantly berated for being a group of bra-burning misandrists has now become a convenient marketing tool for brands.

It’s unlikely that you’ll scroll through social media without seeing one women-empowering advert. Take Dove’s Real Beauty campaign, or Always’ #LikeAGirl trend as popular examples.

On the surface, these highly emotive adverts seem positive. In fact, the altruistic effort to bring women and girls into the retailing world in a way that for the first time isn’t for the male gaze is refreshing.

That perception isn’t inaccurate. Femvertising…

When I was a child, I would urge my mother to buy me one of the beautiful women’s magazines. On the precious occasion that she would treat me to one, I was totally infatuated.

Until recently, I believed this was what brought me towards journalism. The dream of living like Carrie Bradshaw, writing about Chanel boots and living a lifestyle so unfamiliar to me.

However, I’ve realised now that I was reading them like a short fiction book. The middle-class articles, stories, fashion, and lifestyles were a total fantasy to me. …

I understand why femininity gets rejected. Throughout history, the connotations of femininity have often led to prejudice. Feminity, and womanhood as an extension, is often associated with outdated gender roles and various adjectives which the feminist community largely reject.

As a result, it is extremely tempting to just throw away the entire notion of feminity, labelling it as oppressive or outdated. …