“U” is for Uplift

 Writers of Kern Blogging Challenge (A-Z)

It’s happening all over. Feminists criticizing other feminists for not being their version of what feminism means. I read an article on The Week about Lily Allen and Miley Cyrus and their public responses to each other’s approach on touching the subject of feminism through their very different music videos. However, it wasn’t until I reached the bottom of the article that it stated part of what I wanted to say about the situation.

“The truth is that neither can claim the feminist crown because there isn’t a single way to express feminism… just because [Lily Allen and Miley Cyrus are] not Gloria Steinem and Germaine Greer doesn’t mean they do not provide insight into modern feminist discussion. In fact, examining the debate reveals an important ongoing struggle, namely that we expect every prominent feminist, or for that matter every prominent woman, to speak for all women and all of feminism. That’s not going to work.”

The article points out each artist’s stronger and weaker argument points, but it does so in a way that continues the important conversation and leads the audience to think about what is needed to reach equality. There was no name calling or shaming in any way, and I appreciated the informative discussion the article directed.

Every feminist has brought up great discussion and debate about how to move forward and strive for equality period. Every feminist believes that men and women should have equal rights and opportunities, but because there are so many different subsets and approaches to feminism that have developed and expanded over time, I think sometimes we all seem to forget that we are all on the same side.

Stating opinions and entering into peaceful conversation is great for growth, but I feel that, I, and other people need to remind ourselves to watch we say. Judging others on their differences only divides us, but avoiding negative constructive criticism, keeping an open heart and an open mind uplifts us and allows us to progress forward.