Written by: on March 29, 2018
The word Feminist has often been misinterpreted in a negative manner over the years. Journalist and proud feminist, Caitlin Moran, stresses that we we need to reclaim the word, and the movement. In her book, ‘How to Be a Woman’ she says;
“We need to reclaim the word ‘feminism’. We need the word ‘feminism’ back real bad. When statistics come in saying that only 29% of American women would describe themselves as feminist – and only 42% of British women – I used to think, What do you think feminism IS, ladies? What part of ‘liberation for women’ is not for you? Is it freedom to vote? The right not to be owned by the man you marry? The campaign for equal pay? ‘Vogue’ by Madonna? Jeans? Did all that good shit GET ON YOUR NERVES? Or were you just DRUNK AT THE TIME OF THE SURVEY?”
We’re not afraid to call ourselves Feminists at InnovateHer. In fact, we’re incredibly proud to, because to us being a feminist means believing in equality for all. Feminists come in all shapes and sizes, and all genders.
Here we showcase members of our community who, like us, are also proud to call themselves Feminists:
I’m a feminist because it’s just common sense! If we all work together we can achieve much greater things – there’s no justification for separating people on the basis of their gender or any other arbitrary factor. I work in technology and the lack of women in key roles is a big concern for two reasons. The first is that the products we make may not be the best they could be without getting diverse inputs into their creation. Indeed, with the advent of artificial intelligence it could be that without the input of women this technology could be quite literally dangerous. The other major factor is that we need more people in the tech sector full stop as the economy will demand it. The world is a million software developers short so we need more women involved in technology – any country that cracks this will see it’s economy grow and grow.
I’m a feminist because I strongly believe everyone, regardless of gender, should be given the same opportunities in life. It’s everyone’s duty to challenge prejudice, and be great role models to boys, girls, men and women everywhere.
I’m a feminist because I believe in gender equality.
I am a feminist because we still need to be. There are still too many women and girls around the world being punished, abused and oppressed simply because they are female. Too many intelligent, competent women being overlooked, too many opportunities missed. Too many women, who based on their ethnicity, sexuality, abilities or location, do not have the same rights, or the same privileges, that I do. And while there are so many reasons to appreciate and recognise the progress that has been made, there are still far too many reasons not to settle. There is still too much change to be part of.