Not only is it possible for men to be feminists, it should be encouraged and supported.
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.
The copyright of the article Men Can Be Feminists in Feminism is owned by Angela Wilson. Permission to republish Men Can Be Feminists in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.