The Scandinavian

Recently Emma Watson sparked discussions in the media about the contemporary issue of feminism following her UN speech on the same subject. Watson was named a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador early in the summer and has since actively been advocating the issue on social media. In her speech at the UN headquarters in New York lauching the 'HeForShe' campaign she encouraged boys and men around the world to advocate for the issue and realize the true definition of the word feminism- equal rights for women and men. 

 

 

Watching the passionate speech I felt a sense of relief. Relief for the fact that finally a strong woman from the public eye is facing the issue straight forward rather than being submissive about it. Finally a young woman to whom other young girls and women can relate and look up to, who is pushing back against movements such as 'Women Against Feminism'. Finally someone is pointing out that feminism has become synonymous with hatred of men and asserting that feminism is simply the theory of social, political and economic equality of the sexes.

 

Watching the speech I was moved and turned hopeful to a future where both men and women are advocates of equality. Two quotes particularly resonated with me. 

 

"It is time that we all perceive gender on a spectrum, instead of two sets of opposing ideals." It is something that I have never realized, but after hearing it I realize that it is true. In general, society views gender and the associated characteristics as two opposing forces that cannot be muddled and is rarely interchangeable. As a society I think we should only be proud of the progress that we have made in terms of increasing equality, however, we also need to realize that have not yet reached the end goal.

 

"How can we affect change in the world when only half of it is invited, or feel welcome to participate. Men, I would like to take this opportunity to extend your formal invitation. Gender equality is your issue too." This is a statement rarely heard in connection with the feminist movement. Women are not the only sex being discriminated against. For every characteristic associated with femininity or being female there is an opposite one being associated with masculinity and being male. Just as all females don't feel they fit into female stereotypes there are also many boys and men who do not fit into the male stereotypes.

 

Visit the website for the HeForShe campaign to find out more about the movement and how you can participate or take action.