In recent years, the word feminist has become a popular label, embraced by many. Some wear the badge proudly, others tentatively. Then, some identify as feminists but do not fully engage with or understand the complexities of the movement these are the self-acclaimed feminists. While they may declare their support for gender equality, their approach sometimes lacks depth, raising the question: are self-acclaimed feminists truly allies, or are they hindering progress?

Feminism 101: A Movement for Equality
At its core, feminism is about advocating for equality between the sexes, focusing on dismantling systems that perpetuate inequality. It fights for economic, social, and political freedom for women, but also anyone oppressed by patriarchal structures. Feminism is not just about breaking glass ceilings but also about ensuring that women of all backgrounds have the same opportunities and are free from the binds of sexism, racism, and classism.

The movement has evolved, growing to include discussions about intersectionality, gender fluidity, and the complex realities women face in different parts of the world. Feminism is not a one-size-fits-all ideology; it is multifaceted and deeply committed to social justice.

The Rise of Self-Acclaimed Feminists
In today’s social media age, the word “feminist” has become something of a buzzword. People proudly declare themselves feminists online, but not all those who adopt the label have a true grasp of what the movement entails. These self-acclaimed feminists often approach feminism with a superficial understanding. They may speak out about women’s issues when it’s convenient, trendy, or beneficial for their image but shy away from the more uncomfortable conversations about patriarchy, privilege, or systemic oppression.

Self-acclaimed feminists often focus solely on individual empowerment getting ahead in life, breaking barriers, or challenging social expectations. While empowerment is important, feminism is not just about personal achievement. It’s about addressing structural inequality that holds women back as a group. When feminism becomes only about “me” and not “we,” the movement loses its essence.

The Impact on Feminist Movements
The influence of self-acclaimed feminists on the larger feminist movement can be both positive and negative. On the one hand, their visibility helps spread awareness of gender issues, bringing more people into conversations about equality. However, their often oversimplified view of feminism can sometimes derail important discussions.

When feminism is reduced to mere slogans or aesthetics like wearing a “Feminist” T-shirt or posting feminist quotes online it can overshadow the real, hard work needed to challenge deep-rooted inequality. True feminism is about actively supporting policies that help women, particularly those who face intersectional discrimination. This includes advocating for women of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, working-class women, and those in marginalized communities.

By Edima Columbus