19 ways you can become an Intersectional Feminist
By Martina Puja
Being an intersectional feminist means you want equality for all. It’s all about just being non-judgemental, open-minded and open to continually learning about other ways you can be more considerate to others. Of course it gets hard at time as we live in the world where mostly everything is led by white, straight, cis, able-bodied man who are often not aware of their privilege and dismiss other groups of people. I can’t mention all the ways you can become an intersectional feminist, because I probably don’t know all of them but want to learn about them. These are some of the things you should try and try not to do and inequalities that you should fight against.
1). Believe that Black Lives Matter
Feminism is not for white women only and should involve, encourage and empower black women too.
2). Empower all women
One of my personal struggles is to like women who hate women eg. woman who often seem to be more rude and discouraging towards women. Why would you hate your own gender? But then I remember what Chimamanda said: “We raise girls to see each other as competitors not for jobs and accomplishments which I think can be a good thing, but for the attention of man.”
3). No slut shaming
The word “slut” is being too often used to shame women for something that people praise and encourage man to do. If it is safe and consensual go for it!
4). Respect others' religions
Please don’t think that hijabi women can’t be feminist. One of my big role models in feminism is wearing a hijab. For example look up Mona Haydaron YouTube.
5). Do not use ableist language
Do not use words that describe someone’s struggles and illnesses.
6). Do not be transphobic
I’ve seen signs at “feminist” protests saying trans women are not women and don’t deserve to be part of the protest or trans women being excluded from women only events and spaces.
7). Be a good LGBT ally
Please don’t overtake our safe lgbt spaces. Know your place and use your straight privilege and platform.
8). Do not assume there are only two genders
Gender is a spectrum and not everyone fits in the female or the male box.
9). Call out shit.
Racist, sexists, homophobic, transphobic, islamophobic jokes are not funny and people should be thought they are just encouraging the systematic discrimination.
10). Embrace men to feel emotions
Expressing emotions are considered feminine and vulnerable characteristics, why shouldn’t men be able to express them as well?
11). Political correctness doesn't hurt
Just do not say words, phrases or adopt a lifestyle that was and is used by the oppressor towards certain groups that are being discriminated against.
12). Try to serve and give back to community.
If you have any money or time to help charities do it.
13). Know your history
We need to know what happened in the history to be able to learn from the mistakes.
14). Do not fat shame
Body positivity all the way, all bodies are beautiful no matter their size.
15). Do not culturally appropriate
It’s definitely time to research examples of cultural appropriation. Educate yourself and others.
16). Be Open to others’ political perspectives
Try and look at your political perspective through the eyes of people who are
Different from yourself and listen to what other communities are saying.
17). Be understanding
Do not judge someone so easily, instead try and think about what made them feel that way, maybe the circumstances and discriminations that they grew up with.
18). Do not be bothered by breastfeeding
People get upset over a woman breastfeeding in a public space but have no problem seeing unrealistic body image of naked ladies in the newspapers and adverts.
19). Don’t forget about self-care
If you can’t love yourself how the hell you gonna love somebody else, as RuPaul says.