"Feminism" vs. "Equalism"
My boyfriend won't call himself a feminist. He calls himself an equalist. He doesn't feel comfortable with the term "feminism"-it's too women-centric for his tastes.
I don't care what he calls himself- as long as his ideas aren't in conflict with mine. He's also probably right- "equalism" is a great, all-encompassing term for racial, class, gender, and sexual orientation rights. All are equal- different, true, but equal.
So, why do I insist on calling myself a feminist? Because I like the term, and the rich history that's behind it. Because I like how it sounds. Because I feel powerful when I say that I'm a feminist. Because it's a worthy cause. Because it's what my mom called herself when she was in her twenties- and because it's what she calls herself today.
Plus, I don't want to have to change the name of my blog. Now, I present pictures of a naked feminist, taken by her equalist boyfriend.
I don't care what he calls himself- as long as his ideas aren't in conflict with mine. He's also probably right- "equalism" is a great, all-encompassing term for racial, class, gender, and sexual orientation rights. All are equal- different, true, but equal.
So, why do I insist on calling myself a feminist? Because I like the term, and the rich history that's behind it. Because I like how it sounds. Because I feel powerful when I say that I'm a feminist. Because it's a worthy cause. Because it's what my mom called herself when she was in her twenties- and because it's what she calls herself today.
Plus, I don't want to have to change the name of my blog. Now, I present pictures of a naked feminist, taken by her equalist boyfriend.
Photography by Ricky; January 2006.
9 Comments:
What a strong post! Also, I think that today's renewed assault against abortion requires a renewed fervor for women's rights. In being more inclusive, equalism waters down the issues. One strength, though, is that it doesn't ruffle the feathers and close the ears like the term feminism seems to do these days.
And yeah, Equalism without Clothes doesn't grab me the way Feminism without Clothes does. Though, I'm still waiting for your Feminism without Hair series (referring to your new look. :-)
Hoe the job hunt's going well!
thanks! I was worried that this post wasn't strong enough, or long enough, or well written- I've come down with the flu, and have been feeling terrible. Glad to hear that you don't think it's effected my writing!
I think "equalist" is a great word. I too have been loath to view myself as a "feminist," possibly beccause of one too many run ins with feminists who took issue with my art. I won't lie: I do get a little squirrley when someone identifies themselves as "feminist" -- at least until I know where they're coming from.
Present company excluded, of course!
It's hard for me to imagine finding your work offensive- maybe this is because I'm an artist myself(although not a very good one, I'm afraid). I've always thought that the word feminist needed to be reclaimed, but I'm not sure how to do that without excluding the perfectly valid opinions of feminists who don't agree with me.
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I loved the "Equal1" pose. Thanks for this web page.
You're welcome. I find it interesting that you like that particular picture- I'm not a big fan. Thanks.
Why I like the Equal1 pose, part 2. I think it is erotic without being explicit/pornographic. I know you have to walk a fine line.
I think it is beautiful, sensual and arousing. I have to go jump on my wife now (with her permission, of course!)
Hope you had a great holiday!
Haha. Thank you, and happy easter to you, too.
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