What Feminism Means To Me

An essay inspired by “Feminists Don’t Wear Pink (and other lies)”, curated by Scarlett Curtis

An essay inspired by “Feminists Don’t Wear Pink (and other lies)”, curated by Scarlett Curtis

Source: Unsplash

Almost a year ago to this day, I wrote an article entitled #NotMeToo: I Am Not A Victim.

It was born out of frustration.

I felt frustrated by the absolutism of the #MeToo movement, and worried about its repercussions — not so much upon the individuals concerned, but in relation to its impact upon society as a whole.

First and foremost: the power of a label.

What does defining ourselves as victims do to the way in which we hold, perceive and assert our place in the world?

Does this in fact undermine our ability to alter our own narrative?

And, if so, could we be impeding our own progress by presenting ourselves in this way?

I was wrong.

I wanted to deny my own story because it hurt too much. Because I felt guilty. Because I felt like it was my fault. Because what if it was? Because #nuances. Because sex is power[ful]. Because we do what we can to survive.

I wanted to deflect from the truth because I was ashamed of it.

I am a feminist because I refuse to be.

I am a feminist because my body, my sexuality, and above all my choices are my own.

I am a feminist because this hasn’t always been heard — let alone listened to.

Hell, I am a feminist because this hasn’t always been spoken.

I am a feminist for all the times I was afraid to speak my mind and share my truth.

I am a feminist because the future is still unwritten, and I want things to be different.

I am a feminist because I am no longer scared of taking up space in the world.

I am a feminist because I refuse to live in fear.

I am a feminist because there is strength in weakness.

I am a feminist because, despite being a semi-amusing anecdote, being told that “you should be charging for this” isn’t a compliment.

I am a feminist because I know my own worth.

I am a feminist because I will fight for the rights of those less fortunate than myself.

I am a feminist because the fact that I, too, have been a victim doesn’t negate my ability to survive — and thrive beyond — the unthinkable. On the contrary, it exemplifies it.

I am a feminist because I refuse to be defined by my victimhood.

I am a feminist because I will fight for what I believe in.