Like many women, I am deeply entrenched in patriarchal communities. For a long time, I didn't mind. I declared I wasn't a feminist. I made excuses for mistreatment. I believed the platitudes of my ecclesiastical community. I upheld the patriarchy. I was acting in faith -- I was trying to be righteous. In fact, I was proud to be a woman who supported these male leaders.
Frankly, I am no longer content with the status quo. I am angry. I am bothered. I'm one of THOSE women -- the troublesome women that don't bow down to men. I am a feminist. As most others, I am a feminist that does not believe men need to be pushed down for women to rise -- just as I believe all marginalized communities can rise up if those who hold the power get the BLEEP out of their way. Step aside. Make room. Expand the circle. Welcome other voices and perspectives. There is enough space for us all, and the world will be better for the diversity of thought.
And so, I am a feminist. I believe that women have been pushed down and shoved aside. I believe things need to change. In honor of International Women's Day, I publicly applaud and thank the women who have come before and the women who are fighting now for the rights of us all. I find hope in the moments when amazing women prove that previous-held biases towards women are not valid. I find inspiration in women who keep speaking up. I find strength in women who lift one another up instead of being swayed by the jealousy the patriarchy has so deviously convinced us we must feel.
Happy International Women's Day. Trust in your worth. Value your strength. Hold tightly to your fellow women. Stick together, girls... we'll change the world.