Why I, an Indian-American Technologist, Proudly Identify as a Feminist

In today’s world, the term ‘feminist’ has evolved far beyond its dictionary definition — the advocacy of women’s rights on the basis of the equality of the sexes. It has become a platform for dialogue and growth, a movement that acknowledges and addresses the gender imbalances in our societies, and a commitment to strive towards a world where everyone, regardless of their gender, can live freely and fearlessly. As an Indian man fortunate enough to pursue higher education and a career in information technology, neuroscience, and artificial intelligence in the United States, I am often asked why I label myself a feminist. This question prompts a lot of introspection, and the answers I find within myself are rooted in my upbringing, field of study, and lived experiences.
My path to becoming a feminist starts with my cultural and familial roots in India. India, a country of diverse cultures and traditions, has also been the setting of a long and arduous struggle for women’s rights. I was raised in a family where gender equality was not just a concept but a practice. I saw my mother and father share responsibilities and decision-making, and the message was clear — men and women are not just equal but equally capable. However, as I grew older, I realized that my family was more the exception than the rule. Many of my peers’ mothers had little say in family matters, and many of my female friends faced restrictions that I, as a boy, was not subjected to. These early observations sparked my interest in gender equality and kindled the beginnings of my feminist journey.
Fast-forward to my academic life in the United States, where I studied various fields, dealing not only with bits and bytes but also with cells and neurons, both biological and artificial kind. While studying the human brain, I realized that societal biases often flaw our understanding of gender. The brain, the most complex organ, does not discriminate based on gender. However, our societies have constructed rigid gender roles, influencing our perceptions and behavior, often to the detriment of both women and men. As a scientist, I found no basis in biology that justifies the suppression or marginalization of any gender. This revelation reaffirmed my commitment to feminism.
In my professional life, I have witnessed first-hand the lack of representation and gender bias in STEM fields. Although we have progressed in recent years, women are still underrepresented in science and engineering. This isn’t due to a lack of ability but rather an ingrained systemic bias and a lack of support and opportunities for women. Advocating for feminism in STEM means pushing for equal opportunities, fair representation, and an end to the harmful stereotypes that discourage women from pursuing careers in these fields.
I consider myself a feminist because I believe in the fundamental principles of justice and equality. Feminism, to me, is not about promoting one gender at the expense of the other; rather, it is about dismantling harmful societal structures that have perpetuated gender inequality. It is about recognizing the value and worth of every individual, irrespective of their gender, and working towards a world where every individual has the freedom to reach their full potential.
I believe that feminism is a journey of learning, unlearning, and relearning. It is about acknowledging our biases, challenging them, and striving to change. It is a commitment to the idea that all genders are deserving of equal respect, opportunities, and rights. I am a feminist because I am a believer in this vision of equality, and I hope to contribute, in my own small way, to making this vision a reality.
I understand that the label of ‘feminist’ may not sit comfortably with everyone, and that’s okay. Labels are less important than actions. Whether you choose to label yourself a feminist or not, what matters most is how you act in your daily life and how you treat the people around you. I believe that every small step towards gender equality, every act of respect and fairness, contributes to the larger movement.
I also recognize that my journey is unique to me, and my perspective as a male feminist will be inherently different from that of a woman. It’s essential for me to remember that while I can support, advocate for, and participate in the feminist movement, it’s also crucial for me to listen, learn, and amplify the voices of those who have lived the female experience first-hand.
I am a technologist, a scientist, an Indian-American, and a man. These identities influence my understanding of the world, and they also influence my understanding of feminism. I am a feminist because I have seen the strength and resilience of the women in my life, my scientific understanding affirms the equality of all genders, and I believe in a world where everyone is treated with the respect and dignity they deserve. I am a feminist because I recognize that our society still has a long way to go before we achieve true gender equality, and I want to be part of the journey toward that goal.
As a man, I believe it’s vital for more of us to engage with feminism, to understand it, and to become allies. Feminism isn’t just a women’s issue — it’s a human issue. Gender inequality impacts us all, directly or indirectly. It limits our ability to grow and evolve as a society, to tap into the full potential of half of our population. It’s time we break away from the stereotypes and stigmas attached to the term ‘feminist’ and realize that it is a belief in basic human rights.
I hope that by sharing my journey, I can help foster more understanding and dialogue about feminism, particularly among men. It’s not about being perfect or having all the answers. It’s about being willing to listen, learn, and grow. It’s about striving to be better — for ourselves and future generations.
I am a feminist. And I’m proud of it.