Why Some People Still Think ‘Feminist’ Is a Dirty Word
It’s not about overthrowing men — it’s about deserving the same respect.
I remember the first time I referred to myself as a feminist. I was hanging out with a small group, all of us in our late teens or early twenties, and the topic came up. I said something about believing in women’s rights, and stated that yes, I thought of myself as a feminist. Another young woman present (whom I didn’t know very well at the time) was clearly taken aback, and I didn’t know why.
Her: “Are you sure you want to call yourself that?”
Me, surprised enough to pause. I second-guessed myself for only a moment and then responded: “Well, yeah. I mean, I stand by what I believe in.”
Silence.
Me, still genuinely surprised: “I’m actually not really sure why you look so offended.”
Her, blushing: “I’m just…disappointed. I didn’t think you would feel that way.”
I was shocked. Was that supposed to make me feel ashamed? “Uh… what way exactly? I just said I want equality for women. Equal pay, equal opportunities — that’s what I believe in and what I want to fight for. Don’t you?”
Her, literally snapping at me: “Equity! Equity, not equality. Men and women…
