Today, March 8th, marks a special day for me. Not only is it my best friend, Holly's birthday, but also international women's day. It is SO important, to celebrate and acknowledge women- our struggles for equality, from discrimination (which we still face now), politics and patriarchy. One of the things which FRUSTRATE me is the assumption that feminists hate men. No. You don't have to be a woman to be a feminist- you can be a male, female- anybody- to support the equality of women.
It is often I see/hear the annoying phrase of women 'belonging in the kitchen'. It is surprising to me that I still hear this- we are in 2017, not the 1950s. I am proud to be surrounded by a society where women are respected, women have unions, we are able to voice how we feel without being suppressed by a man. We are all born the same, regardless of gender, none should be considered less inferior. We, however, still have a duty as a society to help other countries where discrimination is worse and to also help improve and fight for equality until it completely disappears. This can also be seen with education- males being educated whilst women are expected to stay in their domestic role. No wonder some feel threatened when a woman earns more money than them.
As a female, I fight and help educate the misinformed on gender equality. Our mothers raised us to become queens, do things for OURSELVES, not just for the man. My mother- my inspiration- has taught me the hardships of being a woman. As a breadwinner herself, I respect my mother's ambition, work ethic and motivation to do well for herself and the family. My father, on the other hand, works too but earns less. There is no problem with that. I am so proud and inspired to do better for myself and not limit myself or my dreams because of my gender. Even her not changing her surname, during the period where it was conventional to take a man's surname, made her my role model. Not that it is seen as a problem if you do take a man's name, but it depends on your reason behind it. If you justify this by 'because its traditional', 'a man defines me', then you should rethink. This is something I feel SO passionate about. We have a collective duty to educate our future generation- our daughters and sons on the importance woman play.
I would like to say those who have inspired me (alongside my mother):
Holly Thompson- My dearest friend, has taught me how to be genuine, kind and passionate. Her work ethic seriously motivates me to be a better person. Since I've met her, I was deep down a vulnerable and lost myself but I found meeting her made me feel so confident and proud of what I wear and how I act.
Lulu- One of my oldest friends who I consider like my sister. Her brutal honesty has made me a stronger person. I am incredibly honest and often brutal, but I also combine this with doing what is best for others. Her open-mindedness is like a breath of fresh air. I am so thankful for her friendship and without her, I wouldn't be the person I am today.
Haroon's mother- I have, over the past 2 years, have gotten to know my boyfriend's mum quite well. Her handwork never goes unheard of, I have the utter most respect for her, I consider her like my second mother. When you speak to her, she is so caring, endearing and an all round fabulous woman. She probably doesn't know it, but she motivates me to be an independent woman, who doesn't depend on any man. Kudos to her!
My sister- Between myself and my sister, she has been known for being the outspoken, loud sister, whilst I was a quiet, shy girl. She is politically aware and woke of issues surrounding today's society and can tear down anyone in an argument. I certainly think that as I grow as a person, I see myself being able to speak out on issues that I would be usually be scared to speak out to.
Thank you.
