Feminist

      I am a feminist. I think that a lot of people out there think that feminists hate men, and that feminists want to overpower men. But no, here's the definition of feminist: "A person who believes in the social and political equality of both sexes." 

     I have always been a feminist, but after listening to Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's speech about feminism on TED, I was so touched and inspired that I realized it's a very serious thing that needs to be heard. A lot of people think that there's no need for feminism. They say, "Oh come on, it's 2014, we, as a society, are fair to women these days." And sure, maybe in Canada, women are treated fairly in most situations. But it is not so in a lot of countries in Asia and other places like Africa. Other places and countries have cultures that traditionally put men first and value men more. For example, in the Chinese culture, they give men more power and they often feel like having a son is better. Many women are pressured during their pregnancy because of this tradition. They feel ashamed and blamed when it's not a boy. It's not only mean to the baby girls, it's also very rude to the mothers. 

      And I have noticed a few things in relationships. When a woman gains weight, most men say something about it. But what happens when a man puts on some weight ? Nothing is, or can be, said. We have this ridiculous pressure and expectations on women and girls these days. It's sick and unhealthy and it pushes young girls into making bad decisions. 

     Also, people are always using insults like "Don't be such a girl." "Grow some balls." "Why you gotta be such a pussy?" First of all, there is nothing wrong being a girl and it is definitely okay for a guy to be girly. And when people tell us to grow some balls, why? Balls are weak and sensitive, like, have you never gotten kicked there before ? If you have to say something, you should tell people to grow a vagina. Because that body part is strong and tough. Vaginas go through bleeding every month.

      I just think that we humans should be equal. I really don't think that feminists are against men in any way. And most men don't realize there's even a problem because they don't feel the affects. They are not the ones being targeted. Do not even make me mention the sex slaves rate for women in other countries or woman's abuse. Though I will mention that abusing a man is not acceptable either. Equality is for both sexes.

      And sex. Girls and women are taught that they lose something when they have sex - their virginity. But for guys, nothing bad is told to happen when they have sex. Girls are shamed and hated if they dress in a more revealing way, yet girl's bodies are used everywhere in commercials and advertisements. I think that girls should be sexy for themselves, to feel good about themselves. It's their body and they can use it as a powerful asset. It's the same with heels. Some wear heels to feel confident, sexy and powering. It shouldn't be to make boys like them.

Editor: M.B.C.