During the most recent Video Music Awards show aired on August 24th, Beyonce's performance was breathtaking as usual. But it was the message her performance sent that shocked everyone. I'm sure you have seen the *adorable* pictures of her, Jay-Z and Blue Ivy on stage after her performance, but her statement was the most important and talked about event throughout the VMA's.
Beyonce opened her 17 minute VMA appearance with the words, "Welcome to my world" before executing one of her most flawless performances to date. In the middle of her performance she had the word "FEMINIST" in bold letters on the screen behind her. A voice over read, "Feminist: a person that believes in the social, political, and economic equality of the sexes."
The next five minutes of the show were dedicated to articulating Beyonce's feminist stance. Other words across the screen read, "We teach girls to shrink themselves" and "We teach girls to have ambition, but not too much; to be successful but not too successful because otherwise you will threaten the man."
For these words to be displayed directly behind Beyonce while she was on a stage was a very daring move on her part. Many speculations have been going around in adherence with her view on feminism and the role she plays in young girls' lives throughout the world.
Beyonce and Jay-Z are a power couple who are role models for fans and onlookers alike. Not only is she a married woman, she also has a daughter, Blue Ivy, who is one of the most important aspects of her life. That being said, the public has criticized Beyonce's stance countless times in respect to her lifestyle, clothing, job, marriage - you name it.
Now, there is no doubt about Bey's opinions on the world surrounding us. The authority that Beyonce has in the celebrity community makes her the perfect person to advertise these thoughts and opinions, and what better environment than the VMA's? Not only does this give the Queen a publicity bump, it also reaches to one of the largest fan bases around.
Girls everywhere want to be like Beyonce and if they see her strong opinions about the pressure put on women throughout the world, maybe, just maybe, it will encourage them to believe the same. Even if they think she is completely wrong, at least the public is aware and will start to form some sort of an opinion.
Feminism is not a new concept, it's not a "modern agenda". Since Rosie the Riveter in the 1940's, woman have been trying to push themselves to become fair equals with men; in the workforce, home life, economic value and overall respect. It's an uphill climb that was almost at a plateau, but with recent efforts from celebs like Beyonce, men and women are starting to realize that feminism is not just an idea, it's an important cultural aspect that needs some drastic change.
Agree with Beyonce or not, but don't walk through your day without being aware. Just because she is a mother, wife, and performer does not mean that she can't claim herself to be a feminist. These points even further her position because she understands the differences that she and her husband experience within the entertainment industry, and also the views that will be pushed upon her daughter as she matures. There is no thought nor belief more important than what a mother sees for her daughter, and with society the way it is today, Beyonce is standing up so her daughter won't have to endure the same types of judgement.
From the mouths of Beyonce and Rosie, "We can do it!"
