We are a 21st century generation. Despite this, our society is imprisoned in the shackles of gender inequality. It is good news then, that a new wave of feminism has risen, questioning stereotypes and media’s portrayal of women.
Here are three young feminists inspiring us with their indomitable spirit.
Emma Watson
Cherished across the globe for her portrayal of Hermione in the Harry Potter Series, this young actress launched the ‘HeForShe campaign' in September 2014 that strives for gender equality. In her UN address, she raised a key question. “Why has the word [feminism] become such an uncomfortable one? It is not the word that is important; it’s the idea and the ambition behind it.” Through her campaign, she calls upon everyone to not shy away from the issue of gender equality and to come together to build a better society.
Malala Yousafzai
This Pakistani teenager strongly fought for women’s rights and even survived a deadly attack by the Taliban. She expressed her resentment and gave a glimpse of women’s life under the Taliban regime through her BBC Urdu blog, Diary of a Pakistani School Girl. In her words,
“It is the woman who controls the whole house...it's her job, that's what she's supposed to do...We have to change this idea that women are only supposed to work in the house... but she also has the ability to go outside and do business, to be a doctor, to be a teacher, to be an engineer, she should be allowed to have any job she likes. She should be treated equally, as men are.”
Rupi Kaur
This poet expresses her views on feminism through her poetry and prose on the Instagram platform. Here is one of her beautiful creations:
True indeed! The poem portrays the bitter truth that women have always underestimated their own potential. The change can only come if we realize we have all that we need.
As long as we have such powerful and fearless women amidst us, there is hope that we will be able to build a society free from gender inequality.
Written by Sonalika Arora