I agree with what you said in the weblog. The original ideals of
feminsim - equal rights for women, access to education, high-level
employment, the right to vote - are all Very Good Things and worth
fighting for. But it seems the word has been hijacked by a few people
who see victimization everywhere. And that seems contrary to what the
original ideal was about, that women should have the freedom to pick
options. Instead, some who claim the label would consider women who
don't act as those few would wish to be traitors to their gender.
But there's no good word to replace it ... I support women's rights
to education, political power and high-level employment, but I also
support the rights of women to choose not to pursue those things if
they don't wish to. I don't know what to call myself in that regard.
I'm not a feminist if by that you (generic "you") mean someone who
thinks all women should aim for the CEO spot, reject their sexuality
and strive for power in all areas of their lives. But I am feminist
if by that you (again, generic) mean someone who thinks women should
be free to do or not do those things as their hearts lead them.
So I don't think I identify myself as a feminist. But I DO support
equality of opportunity for women. I don't know what word to use.
-- Anonymous, May 18, 2000