Let's Talk About 'Sex'

Any linguist worth their salt knows that a homonym is a word with multiple meanings. The rascality of this etymological device, may have intentionally been pervaded to deceive you into thinking that this was some sort of scandalous confession/discussion about the art of making love.....but thankfully for my parents it’s not. Because let’s face it, a blog entitled ‘Women’s Issues and Feminism’ sounds about as intriguing as a dark alley way offering ‘free hugs’.

For those of you who made it past that sneaky six line introduction, ‘Sex’ in this instance refers to the issue of female gender and an exploration into the pre-digested notions of what a woman is, who she should be and how she should behave. 

For many, feminism is a scary and weighted word and for those of us not quite sure, (and are quite frankly scared to ask!) it encompasses both the historical and present circumstances of women’s social, political and economic standing. The suffragettes may have been wonderful women who fought for our freedom to vote and the right to be individual and separate entities from our husbands, but what does it actually mean to be a modern day Feminist?

Arguably, modern Feminism can take many forms because progression isn’t about defining what females are, it’s about expanding the world view about what a woman CAN BE. Fortunately, many of us have the opportunity to choose our own paths, because the option to have choices is actually what the feminist movement sacrificed itself under the hooves of patriarchy for. Increased female enlightenment involves the right to pursue and enjoy individual perceptions of meaningfulness, whether that’s in the home or in the work place. It’s the insistence upon equal and respectful relationships with friends and partners bounded by a supportive and encouraging love. On an individual level, being a feminist involves a woman’s refusal to sell her talents and aspirations short because of your own responsibility to be the very best you can be. Although there is a small body of writing to suggest otherwise, I am determined to believe modern feminism involves the encouragement and support of other women regardless of how their own opinion and life choices differ from ours. The importance of a sisterhood for me, is integral and like every grand theory, this can be explained with an anecdote similar to the story of Einstein’s humble apple. 

In 2015, I tweeted about the controversy surrounding Calvin Klein’s photo campaign and use of a model who, the media were largely referring to as ‘a plus side model’. To my absolute mortification, an overzealous American feminist featured my tweet in an article titled ‘The 20 Most Misguided Tweets About Plus Sized Model’s’...Horrifically awkward as I’m sure you can imagine. 

I can’t remember exactly what I said, (genuinely!) but the experience taught me two things about feminism. One, that it is extremely important even in our increasing politically correct world to fearlessly exercise your own opinion, as long as you are respectful to others. And the second is that regardless of whether or not you agree with the actions or speech of another woman, feminism isn’t a competition to reach the illusion of some non-existent moral high ground where only the ‘best women’ live. 

I never want to be the type of woman to make another feel inferior, intellectually, emotionally or physically. I’m only concerned with empowerment because no matter what, happy and fulfilled girls are always the prettiest, and they are always the first ones to reach out their hands to help others. I pride myself on choosing to be around strong women because the really great thing is that they make you feel great too and that's an admirable quality regardless of gender.

It’s also important to remember Feminism and gender equality isn’t some female Vs. male showdown either. In her UN speech, Emma Watson said that gender equality cannot be achieved without the engagement and participation of men. Although they say that behind every great man is a great woman, it would be interesting to think about how many great women have had encouraging male role models behind them. A lesser known fact is that Feminism is an issue that affects everyone, and for the future husbands and fathers who may be reading this, that’s something to contemplate for the next generation of empowered wives and daughters. Fortunately, my Dad has been one of the most influential people in my life and for better or worse, his quiet persistence has never tolerated me to be anything less than what I am capable of being. Treating women as equals does not mean we ignore our differences. As Caitlin Moran notes, 'Men' and 'The Man' are two very different things. So as determined as feminism may be in sticking it to 'The Man', the majority of us still love 'The Men'. 

Although it’s alarmingly evident first thing in the morning and to my unfortunate relatives, friends and favourite snap chatters, I’m not here to be beautiful. I’m here to try and make an impression on the world. I’m not naive enough to think that my face, body or the way I present myself haven’t helped me in life, but beyond these externalities, our existence as females is not defined by how physically desirable other people perceive us to be. 

It’s especially important that young girls understand that although there’s power in looking good and feeling confident, beyond the superficiality of makeup, clothing and a peachy bum, ultimately it’s not how you dress but what you dress that matters. 

Intelligence, wit, determination, talent and kindness are potent powers which will take you the extra mile in life. The aim of feminism is to develop strong-minded, strong-hearted, strong-willed, and strong-bodied women. Together we ladies can work beyond the sexist jokes and the woof whistles because we’re making distinct progress every day. Whether that’s a single unemployed mother finding work and support, or the inauguration of the next powerful female political leader. 

As the formidable and accurate saying goes, there is a special place in hell reserved for women who don't help other women. I couldn’t very well preach about female empowerment without talking about my lovely fellow blogista’s who are lighting the torch for young, Irish females with a ‘can do’ attitude. Although they need no introduction, take a look at these very talented ladies by using the links below.

From Edinburgh With Love.

  

Alana Mc Conalogue www.caloriesandcarbs.net

Sara Ryan www.noglitzjustglam.com

Nicola Mclaughlin www.thesequincinderella.com