Feminism.

You must have heard this word very frequently. In conversions with your female colleagues, in movies, books, music, stand-up comedies, global speeches, debates or just about anywhere.

It’s so commonly used that it’s become synonymous with strong independent women. Unfortunately, some men and even women mistake it to be akin to male-bashing.

It’s not! It’s really not!

Feminism is —not discriminating woman just because she is a woman.

Let that sink in!

It’s not male-bashing, male hating. We don’t want to hate or be superior to anyone. We just want to be equals. Is that too much to ask? Considering we make half the population in the world. Gloria Steinem says “A FEMINIST is anyone who recognizes the equality and full humanity of women and men.”

It’s true, men and women are different. Biologically and emotionally too. Sadly, women’s differences are frowned upon and seen as a sign of weakness and a chance for subjugation. But differences have to be celebrated. We feel and express differently, and that’s what makes us unique and beautiful. We complement each other.

It has been thousands of years since human civilization, and yet we are still stuck with one gender dictating and dominating another. How did we, as a society, turn out like this? If God did create us, then I am sure he created Man and Woman as companions, not one superior to another.But guess what the biggest irony is? Women looking down on their own gender.

Have you observed that women are women’s biggest critics? While it should be opposite of that. Some women judge, criticize, belittle other women for their choice of clothes, career or life. Some women even accept and expect other women to live in the shadow of men.

What I don’t get is, why?

Don’t we already have enough people to pull us down? Don’t we already live in a patriarchal society?

Instead, we should try to lift each other, love each other, help each other, respect each other and most of all, accept each other and our choices.   Women should be the flagbearers of other women’s achievements and bravery. Women should rejoice at the success of women; be the guiding light to girls who dare to dream; encourage girls to have their own voice; believe in the power of the female and stand up for themselves and others. Because as Maya Angelou said, “Each time a woman stands up for herself, without knowing it possibly, without claiming it, she stands up for all women.”

Another important topic I want to talk about is misdirection.

We are in the fourth wave of feminism. But it baffles me that we are still squabbling over trivial things. People think allowing women to dress the way they want, drink, smoke, party or stay out late qualifies as equality. It doesn’t even come close.

While the traits above-mentioned are one’s own choice, irrespective of one’s gender. They are merely choices—they don’t necessarily empower women. A woman can choose to do it or not. It’s her decision.

However, if you want to see a quantifiable change in the way the society perceives women, then start by educating girls, respecting them, providing jobs to women, and giving women powerful decision-making roles. “Choose your battles wisely because if you fight them all, you’ll be too tired to win the really important ones.” This quote elucidates why it’s essential to stand for the right to education, right to equal pay, right to freedom, right to jobs, right to vote, right to her body, and right to choose.

These are the things we have to fight about. These are imperative, and there is no compromising on them. These things are trailblazing attributes which directly lead to other changes. In conclusion, I want to leave you with impactful words from Meghan Markle “Women need a seat at the table, they need an invitation to be seated there… where this is not available, they need to create their own table.”

Throughout centuries, a woman’s worth was measured by her role towards men. How good of a daughter she was; how obedient of a wife she was or was she a dutiful mother. Her life was always determined based on her servitude to others. Since childhood women were told and raised with the notion of being a good wife, a good mother, and that their life was successful if they marry well. Career or job or personal desire was seldom considered and often sidelined. If a woman was ambitious or strived to succeed professionally or if she wanted to be independent, she was usually seen with disgrace.

But I am glad these medieval ideas are changing. These changes were possible due to the relentless perseverance of various women as well as men. These folks were well ahead of their time and were scrutinized for the same. They endeavoured for an equal society, and because of them, we are here today. Although we have a long way to go, these courageous people fill me with hope and strength.

I feel fortunate to be born in this era, where feminism has taken a forefront space, and people from all walks of life are using their voice to empower women.Today, women are breaking stereotypes and taking up social, financial, and political responsibilities. Men are leading and encouraging women to stand up and take power. While the percentage is still bare minimum and equal future is still miles apart, women, now, see a ray of hope, for a day, when no girl ever feels sad for being born as a woman.

Here’s a sneak peek at some of the women behind The Panel Station!!