By Nsimire Celia
I know, the sound of that must make most uncomfortable. Feminism often seems wrapped in misunderstanding, as if it’s reserved only for “bitter, angry women.”
Yet, feminism’s core is simply justice for women – a call to recognize and right historical imbalances. Feminism, in its purest form, seeks fairness, not superiority.
And while some might prefer the word “equality,” I hesitate to use it; I find “justice” speaks closer to the heart of the movement.
For decades, feminism has been met with resistance. Some view it as a threat, something that disrupts the status quo. But let’s be real: any movement that advocates for change challenges comfort zones,
and maybe that’s exactly why feminism feels “scary” and distasteful.
But at its core, feminism is not about anger or revenge. It’s about restoring balance in society – creating a world where gender doesn’t determine one’s worth or potential.
Audre Lorde, couldn’t have put it any better when she said, “I am not free if another woman is unfree,
even if her shackles are different from mine.” Lorde’s quote ought to remind us of the interconnectedness of the struggle.
Feminism isn’t just about solving issues for one kind of woman; it’s about understanding that until all women are given justice, none of us truly experience it. This easily ranges from the high-end woman to a certain “mama someone” in a kafunda. We can’t cherry-pick which rights are deserving of attention. Whether it’s the pay gap, safety, reproductive rights, or respect in the workplace, the fight is comprehensive.
Boys and girls are raised with differing expectations that limit both. These early messages shape our
adult worlds: I’d use an example of saying to girls; ‘You can have ambition, but not too much.’”
Such societal conditioning limits women and, arguably, men too, boxing them into roles that restrict their
ability to relate and empathize with one another.
For me, the feminist movement is more than a fight for equal pay or access to education – it’s a
commitment to undoing harmful narratives and pushing toward a future that works for everyone.
I see feminism as an all-encompassing movement that fights for justice, regardless of gender, race, or
background. It’s about being part of a collective push toward a fairer, more understanding world.
So, when I say “We Should All Be Feminists,” I’m not asking anyone to burn their favorite things or give
up their comfort zones. I’m inviting everyone to consider what justice really looks like.
Feminism is, in essence, the belief that everyone deserves a fair shot, no matter who they are. And isn’t that something we should all want? – THINK ABOUT IT.
The author is a PR Apprentice at Fireworks Advertising
