"Feminist" is never too harsh of a word, and although very few may use it as a negative connotation or picture every feminist as a psycho-social activist, there are quite a few common misconceptions that we're tired of hearing. Here's to all the cringe-worthy idiotic generalizations I come across often.
"All feminists are male-bashing, man haters." - If that is your idea of standing up for 'equality,' then buy yourself a dictionary. Feminists don't want others to look down on women, but that definitely doesn't mean they would demean men to achieve that. Confusing misandry with feminism is a grave mistake. Feminists everywhere are fighting against chauvinism, and if anyone encourages sexism (irrespective of their gender), that is what a feminist disapproves of.
"A real feminist would never wear revealing clothes" - A real feminist believes in expression and equality. She would do what she deems fit, because she believes in only answering to herself, not to anyone else. Whether a woman chooses to wear a Hijab or a miniskirt, it should be solely her choice. THAT IS WHAT WE FIGHT FOR.
"Why do we even need feminism?" - Probably because of the prevailing ignorance that keeps us from facing the harsh realities of gender discrimination. It is unfortunate that even in the 21st century there is an existing gender pay gap and women in certain countries are still not at the receiving end of a proper education or job opportunities! Are these not reasons enough for a revolution?
"Feminists don't believe in waxing or shaving." - Waxing and shaving has less do to with patriarchy and feminism and more to do with hygiene. Please don't mix these two up. If someone refrains from shaving it has to do with a personal choice and not with feminism. Trust me when I say Veet is not an obstacle for a feminist. If I don't want to be skinned alive it's because...I don't want to be skinned alive.
"Feminists just want a female president. Even if that means electing Hilary Clinton." - Gender equality and equal opportunities for women does not mean turning a blind eye to the reality of politics. Hilary Clinton is a woman, and is running for office to be the most powerful human being of the free world; however, that does not mean that a feminist would blindly support her because of her gender. If so, that is what would entail a gender bias and would, in no way, promote equality.
"All feminists are females." - WRONG. Feminists are those who have a belief in the parity of men and women and would like everyone to be treated equally irrespective of their gender. So there's no written rule that is has to be a woman. Plenty of men out there are feminists and they're role models to everyone still stuck in the 18th century. Sadly so many people think it's a fake facade to pick up girls, but let's be real. Nothing is more attractive than a man who treats you as his equal.
So, thank you to all the men out there stepping up for a woman's rights. Thank you for promoting equality, and thank you for putting an end to this outrageous stereotype. Although us girls might like to think we run the world, we can't feel that way without your help.
