True Feminism and Women Empowerment vs. Blindly Following Trends

-


 


Feminism and women empowerment are often discussed in today’s society, but are we truly understanding their essence, or are we merely following trends without critical thought? True feminism is not about rebelling for the sake of rebellion, nor is it about abandoning responsibilities or core values. It is about taking responsibility for ourselves and uplifting those around us with kindness, dignity, and knowledge.

What Is True Feminism?

True feminism is about equality, not dominance. It is about ensuring women have equal opportunities in education, employment, and decision-making roles. Feminism isn’t about hatred or rebellion against men; it is about fostering mutual respect and understanding in society. The goal is to create a world where women’s voices are heard, their skills are valued, and their contributions are respected.

Key Principles of True Feminism:

  1. Responsibility: Feminism emphasizes accountability for one’s own actions and decisions. It is not an excuse to act irresponsibly or disregard social harmony.

  2. Empowerment Through Knowledge: A feminist uplifts herself by acquiring skills and knowledge that can empower her and others.

  3. Kindness and Generosity: True feminism promotes compassion, understanding, and dignity in interactions with others.

The Distortion of Feminism in Trends

Unfortunately, modern interpretations of feminism often get distorted in popular culture. Social media and blind trends sometimes equate empowerment with superficial actions such as wearing revealing clothing, engaging in reckless behavior, or asserting freedom in ways that harm others. While freedom of choice is vital, conflating it with rudeness or irresponsibility undermines the true essence of feminism.

Misguided Trends:

  • Freedom Without Accountability: Some believe that empowerment means having no responsibilities, such as neglecting household duties or personal growth.

  • Aggressive Behavior: The idea that being loud, rude, or abusive equates to strength contradicts the principles of empathy and dignity.

  • Focus on Appearances: Instead of focusing on developing skills or intellectual growth, trends often prioritize appearances and social validation.

Case Studies: True Feminism in Action

Malala Yousafzai: Malala’s fight for education rights in Pakistan is a shining example of true feminism. Despite facing life-threatening opposition, she stood firm on her beliefs. Her work uplifts not just herself but countless girls worldwide who seek education and empowerment.

Mary Kom: The Indian boxing champion balanced her role as a mother and athlete, showing that empowerment lies in perseverance and dedication. Mary Kom’s achievements reflect true feminism—the ability to break barriers without losing one’s grace and responsibility.

Statistics on Women Empowerment

  • According to the World Economic Forum’s Gender Gap Report 2023, global gender parity will take over 130 years at the current rate of progress.

  • Only 24% of parliamentary seats worldwide are held by women, indicating the need for more political empowerment.

  • In India, the female labor force participation rate stands at only 25%, highlighting the necessity for skill development and job opportunities.

Real Empowerment vs. Superficial Empowerment

Real Empowerment:

  • Acquiring education and skills.

  • Leading with kindness and dignity.

  • Balancing responsibilities and fostering harmony.

  • Advocating for equal rights and opportunities with respect.

Superficial Empowerment:

  • Blindly following trends without understanding their impact.

  • Engaging in behavior that disrespects others.

  • Focusing on external validation rather than internal growth.

A Call for Critical Thinking

Feminism and women empowerment are powerful tools for creating a better society. However, their misuse or misinterpretation can lead to negative consequences. Is feminism about rebelling against societal norms without understanding their value, or is it about uplifting oneself and others with grace, dignity, and responsibility? Are we focusing too much on trends rather than true growth and empowerment?

These questions are not meant to dictate choices but to encourage thoughtful reflection. Empowerment is a deeply personal journey, and its essence lies in making conscious, informed decisions that benefit not only the individual but also society at large.

What does feminism mean to you?

The choice is always individual, but the impact is collective.


- Monali Suthar

monalisuthar1210@gmail.com

www.monalisutar.com

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Reimagining Indian Marriages: A Shift from Extravagance to Empowerment

-
Image
 The institution of marriage in India is deeply rooted in tradition, culture, and societal expectations. It is a significant milestone in one's life, marking the union of two individuals and their families. However, over time, the Indian marriage system has evolved, bringing both joy and challenges, especially in the context of expenses, societal pressures, and changing dynamics. Urban vs. Rural Perspectives: In urban areas, weddings have become grand affairs, often characterized by lavish decorations, extravagant venues, and elaborate ceremonies. The emphasis is often on showcasing social status and fulfilling societal expectations rather than celebrating the union of two individuals. On the other hand, in rural areas, while weddings may not be as grand, they still carry a significant financial burden for families. The pressure to host a respectable wedding often leads to families spending beyond their means, sometimes even taking loans or selling assets. The Financial Burde...
Read more

Is It Time to Rethink the Indian Marriage System?

-
Image
The institution of marriage in India has historically been regarded as a sacred bond, deeply intertwined with cultural traditions, family values, and societal norms. However, in recent years, this institution has come under scrutiny, with rising cases of divorces, disputes over maintenance and alimony, and a shift in societal attitudes towards relationships. In this blog, we critically examine the changing dynamics of the Indian marriage system through social, familial, and individual lenses, supported by data and diverse perspectives. Changing Dynamics: A Snapshot of Modern Indian Marriages Rising Divorce Rates: According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), the divorce rate in India, though still low at 1.1%, is steadily increasing, particularly in urban areas. Metropolitan cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, and Delhi have seen a significant rise in divorce petitions. For instance, the Mumbai family court reported over 6,000 divorce c...
Read more

Feminism: What Does True Equality Look Like?

-
Image
Feminism has sparked debates worldwide, inspiring discussions about women’s rights, responsibilities, and equality. But is feminism always understood in the right way? Is it about demanding rights alone, or should it also involve responsibilities? Does true equality mean both men and women sharing opportunities and burdens equally? These are the questions we must ask ourselves to understand the heart of the matter. What Is Feminism Really About? Is feminism simply about fighting for equal rights, or is it about creating balance? If women seek equal opportunities, should they also embrace equal responsibilities? Can equality exist without mutual respect and understanding between men and women? When women demand equal pay, leadership roles, or representation, does it also mean they should contribute equally to financial obligations at home? If a man helps with cooking and cleaning, shouldn’t a woman also support him in paying bills or managing emergencies? Or is...
Read more