I recently came across the term pop-feminism. It refers to the enthusiastic hearting and sharing of feminist slogans on social media posters–but without investing oneself in learning about the highlighted issue. I may or may not have been guilty of that time to time. (Cough!) A certain level of self-awareness urges many of us to look beyond our own bubble and grasp what’s going on in the wider world. As a writer, I do observe and take inspiration from humanity. But as a woman, I tend to focus inwardly on healing, making sense of spiritual wounds. I have a basic understanding of gender inequity, but I’m compelled now to dig for deeper knowledge.

I’ve begun to ask, “What if I read more specifics about gender inequality issues related to sexism, reproductive health, gender-based violence? And intersectional feminism? How would my thinking change and what patterns or connections would bloom?” I’m responsible for looking beyond my own experience. Informed choices could help bring change to the systems that allowed life to lob those gender-based grenades that hurt people in the first place.  

Why haven’t I learned more and sooner? So many women are ahead of me on that curve. But I’m there now and all ears. I’m acquiring literature and reading essays online. Maybe pop-feminism is the gateway to informed feminism.

Here are a few things I know so far. Gender inequality is linked to issues like accessibility of clean drinking water. Pro-woman does not mean anti-male. None of us exist in a vacuum; every human is impacted by unresolved gender-inequities. When issues are addressed through law, lives improve across every age group and regardless of gender. The effects are seen in decreased poverty and gender-based violence, happier families. I’ve also learned the term “women’s issues’ is divisive. Inequalities is everyone’s issue.

 

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Sacrifice, betrayal, family secrets! A widower and young mother struggle to overcome their tragic pasts in a dying mill town. The Last Hoffman explores environmental issues, mental health & social isolation.