FEMINISM MADE SIMPLE

In considering any issue, the first thing we need to do is define our terms. The bottom line on feminism is simply this: women are human beings. It’s no more than that. It’s no less than that.

Stereotypes of feminism abound, so let’s deal with a few of the main ones. The image of a feminist as a rude, ball-busting woman with hairy legs is so absurd that it hardly needs attention. Unfortunately many misogynists promote that image. Women seeking justice should not have to spend time defending themselves against it with such statements as “I’m not a feminist, but … ” before they go on to state that all they want is to be free of restrictive sex roles, to get equal treatment in employment and pay. To receive the same respect men receive.

Another more benevolent but equally pernicious image is that of nurturing mother – the vision of the self sacrificing, all giving woman who asks nothing for herself and seeks only the welfare of her children. And by extension the welfare of others less fortunate than she, whose needs she feels she should address before any consideration of her own.

Woman as sex object. Let’s not go there. Maybe in another commentary.

To get back to our bottom line: women are human beings. That’s the axiom. The corollary is that women’s rights are human rights. Women do not ask for “special rights.” Women just need the rights enjoyed by men.

Most women love men. It’s time men returned the sentiment  — with  respect and support.

End of rant.

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