A lot of people hear the word “feminism” and think it means that women are trying to place themselves over men. At least, that is how the patriarchy positions it. This narrative discourages more of us from openly declaring ourselves feminists. The patriarchy has it all wrong; feminists simply fight for individual equality on behalf of all genders.
Feminism is the advocacy of women’s rights in order to reach the equality of both sexes.
Feminism advocates for all women to have equal rights in relation to their male counterparts. Moreover, though, feminism uplifts voices that the patriarchy has silenced in the past. The feminist movement is a platform for fresh voices–voices that reach for justice and equality.
In celebration of us being loud and proud feminists here at Liz Fe Lifestyle, we have compiled quotes from amazing women that encompass what feminism is, and additionally, the issues that inspire the movement to date. If you are interested in reading these quotes and seeing the women behind them, keep reading; we know you will be inspired.
The Driving Force Of Feminism: Silenced Women
It is a fact that women are continuously silenced, and have been throughout history. However, the silence of women extends beyond the physical meaning of the word. We live in a patriarchy, through which men hold the majority of power in our society. This reality suggests that women have less power because women are simply ‘less than.’ To this day–whether it is the law of an entire country or on an individual level–women are told that they are not enough, just because they are a woman.
Maya Angelou
You have probably heard, read, or seen Maya Angelou’s name before. Maya Angelou is truly a feminist icon, and her work lives on years after her death. Her name will likely live forever; as she was a renowned civil rights activist, author, poet, and so much more. Today, and hopefully every day, Maya’s words remind us that women are enough–we are more than enough–just as we are.
I’m a woman. Phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, That’s me.
Maya Angelou, Phenomenal Woman.
These four lines are in one of her many poems. In just a few words, Maya asserts she is a proud, capable, and a phenomonal woman. It is hard for many of us to merely accept ourselves as we are. Yet, these words remind us that we, like Maya, are women; and should be proud to be one.
Feminism In Action
In the United States, the feminist movement has been around for decades. It arises in conversations about employment, education, politics, and so much more. However, the core goal of the feminist movement is to create equality for all. When we think of equality, we think of justice. So, who could be better to talk about than Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg?
Ruth Bader Ginsberg
I ask no favor for my sex; all I ask of our brethren is that they take their feet off our necks.
Ruth Bader Ginsburg
The late Supreme Court Justice is regarded as one of the most iconic feminists this world has ever seen. Ruth Bader Ginsberg was a force to be reckoned with throughout her entire life. She was a feminist, and encompassed the feminist movement more than anyone could. Ruth tackled the patriarchal law so that there would be no sex-based discrimination in the workforce.
Ginsberg’s recent passing was a very upsetting event because she was such a trailblazer for women in law (and women everywhere). In honor of her life, we created an article on Notorious RBG Trailblazing Women Empowerment. You can check it out if you’re interested in learning more about her inspiring actions.
It is easy to see why she was so loved by women everywhere. Ruth Bader Ginsberg was coined as the ‘Notorious RBG.’ Throughout her time on the Supreme Court, she continued to advocate fiercely for women’s rights until the very end. Ruth Bader Ginsberg changed the law–not to get rid of male power–but to eliminate gender oppression. Ginsberg is no longer with us, but her life-changing work will stay with us forever.
The words of Maya Angelou and Ruth Bader Ginsburg live on, despite their deaths. Beyond this, though, these women paved the way for us to even have a voice. They paved the way for us to be treated equally, for us to have essential rights, and to even have a feminist movement. If we want to honor these feminists–and what they have done for us–it is essential to be all that you can be.
Michelle Obama
There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.
Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama is an active voice in feminism to date. While her husband was the President of the United States for 8 years, she did not merely stand in his shadow. Michelle is her own individual, woman. She speaks on behalf of all women, not just those in the United States. Michelle Obama created a foundation for young girls all over the world, so that they, too, could have an education.
Where Do We Go From Here?
Prior to the 2016 election, Michelle Obama spoke to the supporters of candidate Hillary Clinton in New Hampshire.
While our mothers and grandmothers were often powerless to change their circumstances, today, we as women have all the power we need to determine the outcome of this election. We have knowledge. We have a voice.
Michelle Obama, Obama White House Archives.
The truth is, we live in a patriarchal world. But, it does not mean we will always live in one. Feminism is about accepting yourself as you are, and more importantly, loving who you are. Feminism is about speaking up–and showing up–when it matters most. But, above all else, the feminist movement is about equality. So, where do women go from here? The answer lies in the words of Maya, Ruth, Michelle, and you. Once we commit ourselves to the goals of the feminist movement, the possibilities truly are limitless. It is on us now, as young women, to make the world a better place. We must continue to speak up and show up; we must continue to love ourselves and acknowledge the power we have–the future generations are depending on it.
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