Beyond Misconceptions: Understanding and Embracing True Feminism for Gender Equality
In recent years, the topic of feminism has sparked numerous debates and discussions worldwide. People are affected by superficial understandings about this powerful social moment which is now hijacked to run agenda has gotten the title of fake feminism or pseudo feminism. This is a fault in our understanding that we interpret this wide and powerful concept on the basis of some memes and
bullying tactics.
also read : RAIPUR NEWS : अशोका बिरयानी में दो कर्मचारियों की मौत का मामला, पीड़ित परिवार को प्रबंधन ने दिया 45 लाख का मुआवजा
First and foremost, it’s crucial to clarify the definition of feminism. Feminism is the belief in and advocacy for the social, political, and economic equality of the sexes. It is not about elevating women above men or seeking to establish a matriarchy. Instead feminism talks about gender discrimination and equality for all but as females have faced discrimination in every era, feminism was introduced in the society to establish gender based equality, to take care of upliftment of women.
also read : RAIPUR NEWS : अशोका बिरयानी में दो कर्मचारियों की मौत का मामला, पीड़ित परिवार को प्रबंधन ने दिया 45 लाख का मुआवजा
If we talk about history of India where in the medieval period women like Razia sultana who faced discrimination in getting a seat in the parliament, and traditions like sati and dowry also today women have been fighting for equal opportunities and equal pay for equal work or crimes like human trafficking , child marriage, female foeticide, domestic violence. While women have been facing all this, there are also many cases of fake charges on men made by women like Jasleen Kaur case by which the term feminism and the rights given to women are
misused at many places. Another case of Justin Trdeau a Canadian prime minister, known as a feminist, has been accused of mishandling of women. We often see that, feminists are portrayed as aggressive, man-hating individuals. This skewed representation has contributed to the belief among some men that feminism is a threat to their rights and status. If we take an example of tradition of sati was discrimination towards female but the person who took the first step and went against this tradition was Raja Ram Mohan Roy. Moreover, the term
‘feminism’ itself has been misinterpreted by some to mean ‘female superiority,’ rather than the pursuit of equality. This misunderstanding can create unnecessary division and hostility between men and women, hindering progress towards
genuine gender equality.
also read : RAIPUR NEWS : अशोका बिरयानी में दो कर्मचारियों की मौत का मामला, पीड़ित परिवार को प्रबंधन ने दिया 45 लाख का मुआवजा
Contrary to popular belief, feminism benefits everyone, including men. By challenging traditional gender roles and stereotypes, feminism opens up opportunities for both men and women to live more freely and authentically. It encourages men to express their emotions, pursue careers traditionally seen as ‘feminine,’ and be active participants in parenting and household responsibilities. Furthermore, feminism addresses issues that affect men as well, such as toxic masculinity, gender-based violence, and societal expectations. By dismantling these harmful norms and advocating for a more inclusive society, feminism creates a more equitable world for everyone. It’s essential to recognize that feminism is not a zero-sum game where one gender’s gain is another’s loss. Instead, it’s about building a world where everyone, regardless of their gender, has equal opportunities and rights. By understanding and supporting feminism, men can become valuable allies in the fight for gender equality.
-By Vasifa Khan
BA English Honors with Mass Communication,
Mats University
also read : RAIPUR NEWS : अशोका बिरयानी में दो कर्मचारियों की मौत का मामला, पीड़ित परिवार को प्रबंधन ने दिया 45 लाख का मुआवजा
