Anonymous asked: Hi there! One of the biggest problems I have identifying with feminism is how there is a largely negative view within the feminist community of 'moderate' feminists. I have found those (like myself) who identify with feminism but may not be quite as radical as others are often treated far worse than those who have no affiliation with feminism at all. I understand the over arching idea that feminists do need to speak up, be loud, bold and brave - and I do sympathise with the tensions that may...
(contd.) arise when someone is frustrated by the comparative inaction of someone who actually is informed on the topic. But I cannot fathom how this is ultimately worse than someone who may not even remotely care about the cause. I’ve seen it branded as ‘apologetic feminism’, which I find terribly insulting. This conflict makes my relationship with feminism turbulent - I would love to become more informed & involved, but if my moderate and slightly different values subject me to ridicule, I am at a loss.
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I don’t see the sense in feminists alienating other feminists for having different views on certain issues; that’s the whole reason there are so many different identifications, sub-categories, or whatever else you want to call them. And really, those don’t even matter. That’s just simplify a general overview of your beliefs if you feel inclined to do so. Your actions are what should count. I see no reason to call your feminism (because it is in fact yours) “apologetic”. How does moderate equate to apologetic? What exactly is it apologetic to?
It irks me that anyone would try to discount you, and I honestly do see how someone would think that you’re being a moderate feminist is a worse crime than being nothing at all… I empathize with your feeling that this is insulting, not to mention completely discourage. I think in part, the individuals you fight alongside matter just as much as the cause, because you need to know they have your back and support you.
I definitely want to encourage you to speak out more. There is plenty of room in this movement for collaboration and exchanges of ideas amongst ourselves. That’s how we come up with the best solutions after all. I know it might be awkward or less than easy at times when you feel like you’re the only one with a specific view, but if that view matters to you (and I’m sure it does), you’ve got to make sure it’s voiced.
I identify with radical feminism mainly, along with a couple of other philosophies, but I sometimes to feel like I am coming for a more moderate place. Certainly not always, because I can be pretty radical, but enough that I know the feeling of being like, “Hey where’d everybody go?” I’m sure there are others that share your beliefs, and I’ve found, that the only way to find those individual’s is to call out and see who answers. :-) xx
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