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Richard. 27. Birthplace: Lynchburg, Virginia. Currently: Washington D.C., USA. Dogs/Cooking. Consultant.
What does the concept/word “feminism” mean to you? What does the concept of equality mean to you?
I want to say equality and feminism mean the same thing but feminism is more specific in that it’s saying women are just as capable as men and just as powerful as men, whereas equality can apply to many different things. That means specifically speaking towards the ability of women to achieve whatever they want to achieve regardless of their gender or any other constraints. Feminism as removing barriers that prevent women from achieving and recognizing their full potential and equality as sameness.
What do you think is the most pressing struggle for women today? What is the most crucial aspect in your eyes?
Well I don’t want to get all political but I would say the wage gap. I didn’t want to say it just because it’s the most politically relevant thing but it’s a big deal.
Is feminism a subject you think about? Have you ever read a book or seen a documentary about feminist issues?
Yes it is.
Why do you identify as a feminist and how/when did you learn about it? What were you taught about women growing up?
Because I believe that women are as capable as men are. I don’t think I was taught about feminism in school growing up or with my family. Honestly if I think back, my family was pretty chauvinistic. I learned about it probably just by going to school with smart capable women and then being in the workplace surrounded by smart capable women all the time. I guess I started identifying as a feminist in college.
Is feminism empowering for men? If so, how? How does feminism differ for you?
No. I mean, it can be. It can be if you’re recognizing that there isn’t a difference. I don’t really think it makes a difference for men unless you’re recognizing that women are equals and you can rely on them just like anybody else and you truly believe and trust in them. I think if you believe in feminism then you have a piece of mind in some weird way.
Why do you think the word “feminist” is associated with a negative stigma? What do you think it connotes? How do you think it could change?
If we’re talking about the general public, then yes. I think there is some ‘men-bashing’ involved in it, but it’s no doubt an extreme few within the much larger group. That might be who people think of when they hear the term.
What issues/reservations do you have with feminism today? What do you personally think needs change?
The impact of feminism is the improvement of women in society for women. For men, there is an impact it’s just not as direct and I think it goes back to the stress thing. Say everyone were equal, we’d just be without conflict and there would be greater cooperation across all industries. And there would definitely be financial benefit in the long term for everyone.
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Photo credit: Deryne Keretic
I don’t know why people need a “label” to believe in what you believe.
What a wonderful path! It is harder to be aware of something when your family does the opposite, I am amazed by the fact that he realized the importance of feminism and equality without being educated to defend those values. What a great example of maturity!