Everyday Feminism is the blueprint we need to make gender equality a reality

‘’Feminism is for everybody.’’ bell hooks. 

What is feminism and why are we still talking about it especially now?  At a time when there’s so much regression, erosion and pushback on human rights across the world these are thoughts that may linger. 

This question is also pertinent in 2024 ahead of major elections in different parts of the world from the US, UK, Rwanda and South Africa with close to 4 billion people expected to cast their vote and shape the political landscape. 

As we bear witness to the scenes coming out of Gaza, to the continuing Taliban regime in Afghanistan, to the rise of the anti-feminism rhetoric and extremism in the UK; the need for feminism has never been clearer.  

In just a couple of days, the world will be celebrating 2024’s International Women’s Day (IWD)- a day set aside every year for women to celebrate and recognize their social, economic and political achievements. But depending on what theme you’re focusing on this year; this will also be a time to do a pulse check on the promise of creating a gender equal world free from bias and discrimination.  

While this IWD may just be another day to celebrate your own SHEroe – from a daughter, partner, colleague, friend, sister to mother – it’s a moment to affirm your own personal belief on taking a stand against inequality and contributing to a world free of sexism, misogyny, patriarchy and oppression.  

This year’s celebration presents a crucial opportunity to recognize feminism and the wave of inspiration and hope it brings at a time like this. It is an opportunity to recognise your power in choosing to leave a better mark for generations to come.  It is also a moment for great introspection as we consider the world we are living in and whether we are delivering the promise to millions of young women and girls that it is possible to achieve their dreams and become who they want to be in society. 

But what is feminism? Is it just another popular name tag? Does feminism  favour women over men? Does it put men on trial? 

Not at all. Feminism is grounded in the belief that we all have the power from within to make a positive difference and use resources at our disposal in creating a just and equal world where women, men and people of all genders can enjoy equal rights. Anyone can be a feminist regardless of their gender. 

Birthed from the conviction that women, men and people of all genders should have equal rights and opportunities; feminism is not biological. It’s an ideology that allows everyone to experience equality and freedom socially, economically and politically. Feminism is the way we dismantle systems and structures that move us away from oppression and conflict and into community and care.  

The feminism wave is happening all around us. From diverse young activists rising up against femicide in Kenya to young women with disabilities in Ethiopia advocating for gender equal laws to British feminists igniting national debates on equality. The power of feminist agency is igniting sociopolitical change across the world. 

This year- you can choose to take a stand by embodying the values of Everyday Feminism. Whether you identify as a feminist or not, there are practical steps you can take to create a legacy in your daily experience – be it at home, at work, or during your daily commutes or while grabbing that cup of coffee in your favorite restaurant. 

First, add your voice to campaigns such as Womankind’s #EverydayFeminism. Drawing inspiration from Laura Bates’: Everyday Sexism and from feminists across Kenya, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, Uganda Afghanistan and Nepal, it demonstrates simple ways you can show acts of feminism, however small, can contribute to change. This is from calling out sexism to mentorship and to being a women’s rights champion in your community. Simply put, it shows that daily acts of feminism matter and that they are a blueprint for making gender equality a reality. 

Secondly, if you want to see gender equality become a reality – remember you have a choice. Making a real difference doesn’t have to be complicated. An example can be making an informed decision through your electoral rights by voting for a leader who exudes and embodies feminist action or shows meaningful commitment to gender equality. 

Thirdly, have you thought of your own personal playbook that can act as a guide in challenging harmful gender stereotypes and the rising anti-feminism rhetoric? We have seen it all from people defending hateful self-proclaimed misogynists and being nonchalant when it comes to sexist crimes against women. However, you can be the silver lining by amplifying the voices of women changemakers across your social media timeline, acting in solidarity by taking part in that local march in your community, confronting your own biases or finally getting that book on feminism. 

Lastly, Everyday Feminism cannot fully function without wellbeing and selfcare. In our busy lives, it’s quite easy for recharging to become an afterthought or seen as an indulgence. A feminist approach to wellbeing and self-care is the fuel we need to experience true freedom whilst retaining that balance of championing women’s rights. 

‘’Now, feminism is radical. It is radicalism. It is an understanding that it’s not just about women, it’s about a systemic change. Being a feminist is about understanding that we hold up not just the sky, but that we are the sky.’’ Liepollo Lebohang.