Welcome back, to the second part of this article, where we explore how this powerful movement became misunderstood, and how we can reconnect with its true meaning.
Now, the question remains: if feminism started as a fight for equality, how did it become so misunderstood today?
Honestly, I tried to think of a reasonable answer, but I must admit, I couldn’t find just one. Over time, different voices, opinions, and personal experiences have shaped how people view feminism, some true, others not so much. Somewhere along the way, the word feminism began to carry labels it was never meant to bear.
One of the most common misconceptions I’ve encountered is that feminism is anti-men, that feminists hate men, or seek to overpower them. That’s far from the truth. Feminism doesn’t seek to tear men down; it seeks to lift everyone up. The feminist theory criticizes patriarchal systems, the structures and traditions that have historically placed one gender above another, not individual men themselves. In fact, true feminism wants to free all genders, including men, from restrictive stereotypes that tell them how they should act, feel, or lead their lives.
For instance, men are often told to “be strong” and never cry, while women are told to “be soft” and not lead. Both of these expectations are cages. Feminism challenges these boxes and opens the door for everyone to simply be human.
Another misconception is that feminism seeks to make women superior to men. In reality, the goal has always been equality, not dominance. It’s about fairness, opportunity, and respect, ensuring that one’s gender does not determine one’s rights or potential. Feminism says that women deserve equal pay, that their voices deserve to be heard, that their choices matter, and that none of these beliefs should threaten men.
There’s also the idea that modern feminism has lost its way, that it’s now focused on trivial or overly aggressive agendas. While some extreme expressions may exist (as in any movement), it’s important to remember that no single voice represents all of feminism. At its heart, feminism remains a movement for justice, dignity, and inclusion.
Sometimes, the problem lies in how feminism is portrayed in the media, loud, confrontational, and angry. But anger alone doesn’t define the movement; it’s often the result of centuries of frustration. Behind that anger are stories of resilience, love, and hope, women and men who genuinely want a world where everyone can thrive without bias.
So how do we get back on track with the true meaning of feminism?
I believe it starts with education and empathy. We must be willing to listen before we judge, to learn before we label. It means teaching our young girls that their worth is not tied to beauty or marriage, and teaching our young boys that gentleness is not weakness. It means supporting one another, men and women, in breaking free from the stereotypes that divide us.
True feminism invites conversation, not conflict. It is not about who wins between men and women; it’s about ensuring that both sides can stand on equal ground.
And perhaps, most importantly, it’s about kindness. Kindness in how we speak about one another. Kindness in how we advocate. Kindness in how we challenge old systems while remembering that change takes time and understanding.
Feminism, at its core, is love, love for justice, for equality, and for humanity.
So, dear reader, as we move forward, may we remember that the goal was never to compete, but to coexist. May we carry the true spirit of feminism with humility and compassion, and may we never forget what it truly stands for: equality, freedom, and respect for all.