Feminism is defined as the advocacy of women’s rights on the grounds of political,social, and economic equality to men. Areyou a feminist?On September 20th, Emma Watson, UN Women Goodwill Ambassador (better known as Hermione in Harry Potter) gave a powerful speech about the “He For She” campaign. In it, she spoke about the very relevant and sadly, disturbing truths about gender inequality today.

Feminism has come to hold a negative connotation as women that identify as feminists are believed to have opinions that are too strong, too confrontational, too“anti-men.” A society that hinders young girls from getting the same education as boys, a society that allows perfectly capable women to take the lower position of assistant because the manager is for a man and a society that pays women 78% of what men get paid. Something must be done to stop these persisting inequalities. Feminists are not calling for the superiority of females over males, but rather calling for the end to women’ s inferiority.

Emma Watson makes a logical point when she says that men need to join in on this fight as well; what good does it do if only half of the world is involved in instilling change. The HeforShe campaign invitesnot only women, but also men to join themovement. The unspoken truth is that menare imprisoned by gender stereotypes aswell. How many times have you heard that boys have to be strong and unemotional? I’ve heard it way too many times and have seen numerous boys get taunted for being disinterested in sports and more interested in art for example. If men don’t feel like they have to be the “head strong macho guy,” women won’ t feel the need to be the “submissive, emotional girl.”Gender inequality is an issue to be handled together with both sexes.

I am a believer in the equality of menand women. I am extremely privileged to go to an all female school that empowers girls to be tomorrow’ s global leaders. As young women living in the 21st century,we possess the right to have the same opportunities as men do.