Wow. My mind is blown. You know, I write a lot about feminism and the bullshit that goes on today. I recognize that feminism has many facets, some of which I don’t particularly agree with. I really enjoyed this video. I just never thought about this before, in this way. I suppose I’ve discounted similar arguments because, well, I heard them from guys. Shame on me. I realize men aren’t supposed to be complainers. I myself am predisposed to look down on a man who is fighting for himself, instead of others. I preach and fight for the equality of women in the media, in the workplace, and in the home, but are we all that unequal? Certain things do need to change. Women deserve equality in the workplace. We deserve equality in the justice system. The early feminist movement gave us the right to vote, and fought against sexist language. But, men are expected to do the physical labor of the workplace, because it’s OK if a man is injured on the job. Domestic abuse cases of men are so often dismissed by our legal system as well as society. And, as far as sexist language goes, sexist against whom? Because I still call some men “filthy dickwads” and “pigs who will never get laid” and I get looks of concurrence and really no negative feedback. Why is that OK for me to say? Yet, those same men can’t look at me and go “Wow, what a slut!” without facing massive backlash.
I guess what I’m trying to say is that I’m beginning to realize the feminist movement was never really about equality. It was about women. Not equality for women. Otherwise, I would be just as responsible to give up my seat on a lifeboat as a man. I want to be liberated as a woman, yet I still look to my boyfriend to open the door for me. I like to look at that as a caring gesture. But admittedly, if I am walking behind a man, I am a little taken aback if he doesn’t hold the door. I am very independent and self-sufficient, but if I am on a train and an older man offers me his seat, I will protest but usually accept. I have since been injured so the seat is greatly appreciated; however, why was I any more entitled to that seat than that older man was? Technically, I’m young and heal quickly (but happen to have a uterus). He’s the one that should be sitting.
I’m a little ashamed at how hypocritical I’ve been. But this video is very informative, and I recommend a watch. I don’t really know how I feel about the feminist movement now, but I guess it lies- like most things- somewhere in between the two extremes. I DO think women deserve equal pay, and should not be looked at as sexual objects, or inferior in any way. But, I don’t think I have done anything to be looked at as superior in any way, either. I don’t want that. Society owes me nothing for the sole reason that I can bear children. Maybe when I do something really meaningful, I’ll deserve that spot on the lifeboat.
Reblogged for the comment. Look at that ladies and gents, somebody’s thinking. I may have to decide I like someone. At least for a tick.
(via meangirlsaremean)