Feminism is For Everybody, stated by famous black feminist author Bell Hooks. Even though this is true, feminism starts with our self and our willingness to examine how we may be contributing to the problem but more importantly what to do about it. And because feminism is not in a neat little bubble that contains only women and only women disempowerment (think intersectionality and intersectional feminism – a marriage of many ways that oppression and discrimination overlap) that we must always and diligently be willing to look at factors contributing to feminism. Here are a few thoughts on ways to begin this difficult, burning, inspiring, often exhausting work.
1. EXAMINE YOURSELF
The first step towards feminism is getting real with ourselves. Many of us white women our blinded by our racist and privileged behavior, and thus easily able to ignore our own bias. It is important to ask ourselves questions that are uncomfortable but necessary for us to be allies. For example, how am I contributing both consciously and subconsciously to racism, sexism, classism, etc.? What part to I play in the institution of feminism, racism, etc.? Be curious about your own privilege and how it affects others. For starters you can think about your role as a woman (white or otherwise) and how it fits into the context of race, class, culture, ability, etc. For example, if you are a white woman do you acknowledge the privilege you have over women of color? Even if you are both feminists, the color of your skin will affect your position and power in this world, including access to finances, education, housing, and many other areas.
2. READ BOOKS AND ARTICLES
When you are curious about your privilege, you will want to start reading – a lot. Start reading books by and for feminist. Bell Hooks and Audrey Lorde are the first that come to mind because they are my favorite. But don’t take my word for it. There are millions of authors from all backgrounds and with multiple perspectives that will help give you a framework for this movement. This framework will help for you to understand how you fit in to feminism and where you land in this movement. Try to read a variety of books that include author that are women of color, different generations, abilities, classes, etc. to give you a broad perspective. Think of these books as a compass to move forward to the feminism that you want to see in this world.
3. TALK (OR RATHER LISTEN) TO OTHER FEMINISTS
You can read a million books, but the most I’ve ever learned was having one on one conversations with other women. Learn how to talk to people and listen. You will learn so much more by just listening to other feminists. For example, what have they read? What are their thoughts on the political climate? How do they perceive feminism in their specific communities? How can you join of form a group that is inclusive to other feminists and ensure that all feminists (not just white feminists) are given space and voice in this group?
4. BE GENTLE AND PATIENT WITH YOURSELF
I know this sounds counterintuitive for a movement that screams to conquer and reach large proportions of justice for women everywhere, but sometimes you gotta take a break. No feminist will be efficient if she is not her whole self. This means taking time out, taking some time in nature, and taking time to relax and pause for a moment. No movement has ever been fought 24 hours a day by the same person. You are one person that can make a huge difference, but only if you have the energy and time to do so. Also, know that justice doesn’t happen overnight, and never has. By taking a break you are actually fighting for the cause because you are fighting for you sanity and health. So give yourself the gift of you time, because you are worth it.
5. KEEP FIGHTING
After you’ve taken some you time, it’s time to give back. It’s time to take your knowledge and fight for women and all that are disempowered. As women we are often seen as voiceless. Combat this by speaking up and speaking out. Know that your voice has meaning and power which is why it is seen as so threatening. The more you write, protest, organize, and align for policy, the more we win. But it’s not about winning as much as it’s about changing the perception of women. If we didn’t fight to begin with we would never have been able to vote (and black women the last group many years after white women had gained voting rights, but finally did). It’s time to note what has been achieved and what is still on the table to be taken– fair wages, reproductive rights, fair housing, racial justice, and gender rights. Let’s keep on moving towards the ideal and never stop short of this.