Ever wonder why the word feminism sparks so much controversy? What induces the mocking eye rolls, bitter commentary, and coldshouldering that ensues whenever the words “I am feminist” are strung together like beads? How did a word historically intended to serve both men and women come to have such a negative connotation? Why does the media tend to slander feminism?

          I think it boils down to a few things – (1) reluctant men with a conscious or subconscious desire to keep male-dominated power structures in place, (2) women who fear changing the gender roles they have become so accustomed to via years of social reinforcement, (3) a lack of awareness that reform is needed, and perhaps most primarily, (4) a genuine lack of understanding regarding what the word actually means. For the sake of time, presently I will focus on the latter.

          Feminism, by its official definition, is the belief that women and men should share and enjoy equal rights. According to Merriam-Webster, it is “the theory of political, economic, and social equality of the sexes” and “organized activity on behalf of women’s rights and interests.” The term was coined in the late 19th century after people such as Elizabeth Cady Stanton gathered in Seneca Falls, New York to discuss the issue of women’s rights which eventually led to the organization of groups such as NAWSA (or the National American Woman Suffrage Association) and culminated in achieving women’s right to vote in 1920.

          While it pains me that this is necessary, I feel the need to make a clarification here. Feminism is not the hatred of men – that’s misandry. The problem is that many misguided women have mistakenly labeled themselves feminists when in reality they are misandrists. Although these women have probably suffered much mental and physical agony at the hands of weak men, they are erroneous in thinking their problems derive strictly from male biology.

          I have come to believe people are hesitant of the word feminism because of its stigma. For years people who claim to be feminists have been called man-haters or accused of not shaving under their arms, comments which I feel are lingering remnants of the anti-feminist propaganda campaign of the 1900's (See some of the anti-feminist propaganda cartoons below). So the reality is, while most people probably agree with the basic premise of feminism, they cower away from labels due to the word’s continual misunderstanding and a fear of being stereotyped and subsequently ostracized.

          This is a problematic setback for everyone trying to fight lurking inequalities between men and women in the 21st century. Despite the fact that feminists are facing substantial controversy, I do believe there is a solution in the foreseeable future. Regardless of how trite and mawkish it may sound, that solution is togetherness, a stalwart sense of community and understanding between men and women. I believe opening a dialogue that includes both sexes, by acknowledging the fallibility of humanity in general, and by creating a safe space to discuss and identify both issues and answers, feminism can reclaim its original role to serve people, and hopefully become a less intimidating identifier, like these anti-feminist propaganda cartoons.