Why We Need Feminism | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post

First of all, let’s define feminism.

Feminism (noun): the advocacy of women's rights on the grounds of political, social, and economic equality to men.

For all the “meninists” out there, you should take this as a compliment. All we want is to be in the same rank as you because we are seen as weaker and more vulnerable. Whereas, men are considered the complete opposite. Though the reasons may be subtle, I believe they will eventually build up and become much more prevalent if we make them so.

We need feminism because my parents told me to make my own pepper spray when I went off to college.

We need feminism because, apparently, what I wear is an invitation to sexually harass me (even though I was wearing no make-up with a messy bun, and sweatpants, and sweatshirt when being catcalled, whistled at, made kissing noises at).

We need feminism because the phrase, “smart and pretty,” is considered a compliment, as if my looks had to do with my intellectual ability.

We need feminism because no matter how hard I work at my job, I will still get paid less than a man.

We need feminism because naked women are a norm in the advertising industry.

We need feminism because women at the gym are asked to put a shirt on over their sports bra because it is too revealing, while there are shirtless men everywhere.

We need feminism because dress code in public schools teaches girls that shoulders and knee caps are sexualized by teenage boys

We need feminism because society teaches me to show less skin before teaching boys to show more respect.

We need feminism because I need to walk with at least two other girls on campus at night: one to protect and one to call for help.

We need feminism because I’m tired of hearing rape jokes and using the term “pussy” to mean "weak."

We need feminism because I’m tired of being scared of being alone with a man on the stairs or elevator.

We need feminism because I’m considered moody when I state my opinion that no males else agree with.

We need feminism because the first question people ask a woman in an abusive relationship is, “why did you stay?” and not, "how could he do such a thing?”

We need feminism because guys complain about being in the “friend-zone” when a girl they were nice but did not want to have sex with them.

We need feminism because numerous women around the world are not allowed an education.

We need feminism because 39,000 child brides are married off every day.

We need feminism because being nice to a man and not wanting to have sex is “leading him on.”

We need feminism because it shouldn’t be unreasonable to want to keep my maiden name in marriage.

We need feminism because over 120 countries do not have laws against marital rape.

We need feminism because the government, comprised mainly of men, should not tell me whether I can, or can’t, have an abortion. It’s my body.

We need feminism because society is bent on the idea that our other half is out there somewhere to complete us. I am a whole woman by myself.

We need feminism because whenever I tell someone sex doesn’t interest me, their first question is, “well, how are you going to have kids? How are you going to satisfy your husband?”

We need feminism because people are surprised when I tell them I’m a virgin because I’m “too pretty.”

We need feminism because I am not a hero, or protagonist ,in books and movies. I am a love interest.

We need feminism because the term, “like a girl,” is still considered an insult.

We need feminism because swearing and not wearing dresses makes me a “tomboy.”

I’m tired of all females, of all races, and of all sexualities, being oppressed all over the world. This is why we need feminism.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Lifestyle

The Perks of Being a Girl

“I just want you to know that you’re very special… and the only reason I’m telling you is that I don’t know if anyone else ever has.”

16
girl

As frustrating and annoying as it can be, being a girl is really awesome. We are beautiful inside and out. Not a lot of people may see that, but girls have a ton of amazing qualities.

We have unique flirting skills.

Us girls have a significant way to flirt with other people. Even when we say the most random or awkward things, we have a way of making everything sound cute and planned. It’s just a gift; we’re good like that.

Keep Reading...Show less
gossip girl

Us college students know all about the struggle of spending the day in the library. Whether you are writing a ten-page paper, studying for a biology exam, or struggling through math homework, you somehow find the strength to get to the library to get it all done. Let's just say you have a lot of different thoughts that run through your head during the many hours you spend in the lovely library.

Keep Reading...Show less
female tv characters
We Heart It

Over the past decade, television has undergone a very crucial transition: the incorporation of female lead characters. Since it's a known fact that girls actually do run the world (Beyonce said so herself), it's time for the leading ladies of the small screen to get some credit. Without these characters, women would still be sitting in the background of our favorite shows. These women are not only trailblazers for female empowerment, but role models for women worldwide. With that, here are 15 of the smartest, sassiest ladies gracing our screens that remind us that women do, indeed, rule:

Keep Reading...Show less
New Now Next
New Now Next

If you are like me, you have an interesting personality. Basically, you love to be sassy and snarky, gossip, and act like a total bitch (not really), but deep down, you are actually a very genuinely nice person. The idea of actually hurting someone truly makes you feel bad, and you probably have never actually hurt someone’s feelings because your kindness always shines through, even if you do not want it to. Not sure exactly what I would call this type of personality, but if you identify with it, here are some feelings you can undoubtedly relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Blair Waldorf
Cub Magazine

We all have a little bit of Blair Waldorf inside of us. You may not realize it, but you're probably guilty of at least nine out of ten of these listed points. So why don't we reminisce on the famous Blair Waldorf moments where we realized we were actually her at certain times through the series?

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments