A feminist, according to the common definition is someone who supports feminism. So what’s feminism? Feminism is the social theory or political movement supporting the equality of both sexes in all aspects of public and private life.
The Simple Requirement for Being a Male Feminist
Not surprisingly, the requirements for being a male feminist are the same as those for females. If there was a difference – that wouldn’t be very feminist. Feminism can be very complex, but the basic requirement for being a male feminist is simple: support gender equality and freedom. It’s general and it’s broad, but it’s the basics of feminism.
Beyond the basics, it’s up to men and women to decide the manner in which they want to be a feminist. Some people choose to subtly support gender equality by making small choices, and others choose to make bigger choices. Levels of involvement in feminism is a personal choice. The more involved individuals become, the more this world will change.
Some Supportive Feminist Choices
- Learn about feminist history – know the true meaning and value of what feminism is standing for
- Research companies before working for them – choose to work for companies that truly support gender equality in all aspects of the work life
- Donate to non-profit Feminist foundations, like the Feminist Majority Foundation
- Teach young people about feminism
- Be willing to say, “That’s not funny” to sexist jokes
- Support a local women’s shelter
- Don’t scoff when a man says he wants to stay at home to raise his children
- Don’t pressure a woman to stay at home or to work just because she’s a woman
- Accept that people don't have to automatically agree with everything a feminist says – making personal opinions and choices is okay
- Stop talking about it and find ways to do something about it
- Ask co-workers what they’re earning: openness is the first step to change
- Men should realize that they experience things from the oppressor’s side (even if they are not the oppressors), and as such should be sensitive to how women will react when sharing experiences
- Support women who want to go out at night (men might consider the courtesy of walking on the opposite side of the street after noticing a woman walking alone at night)
- Pick a few important issues to, and fight for them in whatever way you can
- Write letters to the local newspaper
- Write letters to state representatives, senators, mayors, governors – any elected official who should be listening
- Have fun – being a feminist can be a positive experience
- Start using the word feminist and feminism more – people need to be reminded that it’s not a scary word
- Watch the language – many have been taught genderized language, so take the time to learn which words and phrases you want to change
- Stop insisting that certain colors represent certain genders
- Go to movies with strong, respectable female leads
- Split household chores fairly
- Speak up, even in small groups, about feminism and gender equality
- Support the local feminist library (if there is one)
- Sign feminist petitions
This list could go on and on, but hopefully it serves as a resource to get you going on promoting gender equality. Feminism should be important to everyone, both men and women. A feminist issue is a man’s issue, so support the men in who choose to bravely call themselves Feminists. And if you are a man, feel confident in calling yourself a Feminist if you really mean it.
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