The Unspoken Fears: A Nighttime Drive and a Call for Feminism
LETTER | Recently, I had to drive to an unfamiliar part of town for an appointment. When I arrived at the building around 7:45 PM, the street was deserted—dark, quiet, and empty. I immediately felt the need to be alert, worried that I might get mugged. Clutching my car keys for reassurance, I located the staircase, which thankfully was lit, yet I still felt a wave of dread as I ascended alone.
This scenario is one many women can relate to: the feelings of vulnerability that arise in a parking lot, on an empty road, or even in a lift with a stranger. It’s a familiar fear women learn to manage daily, constantly adjusting their behavior to ensure safety. Statistics show that girls and women remain more susceptible to violence, whether on the streets, at home, or in the workplace.
The Feminist Movement and Violence Against Women
The women’s movement has amplified feminist voices to name violence against women (VAW) as a grave form of discrimination. Initiatives like the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which runs from November 25 to December 10, have been crucial in mobilizing global awareness and action against VAW. These campaigns emphasize that violence is not merely an individual problem but a systemic issue needing collective action.
When someone recently suggested I stop using the word “feminism” in favor of “humanities,” I didn’t hesitate: “No way,” I replied. “I love the F-word.”
The Importance of Feminism
Let’s “womansplain” a bit for those who think feminism alienates men or that feminists should find a term that welcomes everyone. Firstly, it is not our role as feminists to make men feel comfortable. In fact, we hope to inspire discomfort regarding their status, entitlements, and privileges within a patriarchal system that still flourishes.
Take violence as a primary example. The World Health Organization estimates that globally, about 1 in 3 women will face physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. This undeniable reality underscores that feminism is not just relevant; it is urgent.
Understanding Affirmative Action
Often, there is a misconception that affirmative action, or positive discrimination, unfairly benefits women. However, it is rooted in the need for fairness, not favoritism. Affirmative action seeks to address structural inequalities that have historically disadvantaged women and other marginalized groups.
If a group, such as women, has been historically excluded from leadership roles, instituting measures to promote their representation is not bias; it’s a corrective action. If men have held 90% of leadership positions for decades, allowing qualified women a seat at the table doesn’t create unfair advantages; it rectifies an imbalance.
Moreover, it’s crucial to recognize that affirmative action is a temporary measure—one that aims to pave the way toward genuine equality, which we have yet to achieve.
The Everyday Struggles and Continued Necessity of Feminism
Feminism remains indispensable because it confronts the everyday sexism that often goes unnoticed: sexist jokes, wolf whistles, sexual harassment in crowded spaces, and the tendency to interrupt or talk over women. The movement is a call for a world where women can thrive free from societal limitations or systemic discrimination.
The Broader Impact of Feminism
Moreover, it’s critical to note that feminism benefits men too. It liberates them from traditional gender expectations, fosters healthier and more respectful relationships, mitigates the pressure of being the sole provider, and encourages shared parenting and paternity leave. In essence, feminism supports men in expressing their emotions without the associated stigma.
The discussion around feminism is far from over; it requires collective engagement. Engaging men in this dialogue is vital, as their voices are essential in the journey toward a more equitable society.
The author is a feminist activist. The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.
