Challenging misconceptions & understanding feminism as a pathway to gender equality

With the horrendous crime that occurred last year, we have once again started to talk about how patriarchy is at the core of such problems. But are such crimes rare? They take place daily, most of which do not get enough media coverage and many remain unreported. If we set aside the larger crimes and observe our lives, we will be able to find how deeply ingrained patriarchy is in our day-to-day lives - so common that we fail to notice them most of the time.

Patriarchy is experienced differently by each individual, but one common thing is that it impacts everyone in different ways, regardless of their position in society including men. There are patriarchal women as well as feminist men. Patriarchy is more in our minds than it is external, affecting the way we perceive and judge ourselves and those around us through its lens. 

This leads us to the conversation of feminism as a tool for addressing the problem at its core. But do we all know what feminism really is? 

“Are you one of those feminist types?” we all must’ve heard such things. Whenever there's a mention of feminism, the first thing that comes to our minds is being critical of men, but we often tend to overlook what feminism stands for and its real purpose and meaning. Is feminism a social system, like patriarchy, but with power in the hands of women instead? It's really just about advocating for equal rights, opportunities and treatment for everyone regardless of gender.

Such discussions also bring up arguments that place blame on the other gender, creating a division as if women and men are in opposing teams. But, the real division is between feminists and patriarchal individuals. The "men vs. women" narrative presents gender equality as a battle which leads to misconceptions about feminism, making it seem like an attempt to place women over men. This supports the stereotypes and builds a victim mindset on both sides, creating conflict instead of addressing the real issues.

The media and popular culture play an important role in shaping perceptions on feminism. But, focusing on portrayals that show feminists negatively, creates a biased understanding, while gender stereotypes continue due to traditional representations of women in media. The negative portrayal of feminism has resulted in many young women and men rejecting the idea of it. Societal narratives about gender roles further stigmatize feminism, making it a challenge to advocate for equality. The combination of biased media portrayals and rigid beliefs promotes misunderstanding around feminism, blocking the chance to make progress towards achieving gender equality.

We say feminism is not necessary. Do we think we don't need feminism? Many rights we enjoy today are the result of feminist movements, most of us are unaware of this fact. Feminism varies among individuals and one doesn't need to follow specific beliefs to be considered a feminist, as long as one supports the equality of all genders. By questioning stereotypes and learning what feminism truly means, there can be a fair society where everyone, no matter their gender, is treated with respect.

- Tanaya Santra (XI)