Few words evoke as many stereotypes and misunderstandings as the word "feminism." What does it mean to be a feminist? Simply put, being a feminist means you believe that men and women should have equal rights and protections. period. Thanks to the internet, we have some pretty hilarious memes to explain feminism to those who might be tempted to use the word as an insult.
In fact, many people are trying to do this. An Internet search for "memes about feminism" will turn up a plethora of images that turn the movement into something hypocritical or ugly. The offensive memes run the gamut from suggesting that women need special treatment to outright saying that feminists are bitter, unattractive man-haters in the ugliest language possible. These are old stereotypes, but sadly, we see these same anti-feminist arguments played out in politics, with some candidates refusing to support policies that would put women on an equal economic footing with men, such as equal pay for equal work, raising minimum wages and raising wages. Support child care.
Some of the arguments against feminism are so ridiculous that you really have to laugh. Next time you have to explain how easy it is to be an advocate for women and those who identify as women, you'll be glad you have these 13 feminist songs at the ready.
Might be a good way to start a conversation
Man, that's not a thing
By the way, this is not
“Mansplaining” is the worst
Repeat: Worst case scenario
No, even nice guys are not eligible to date
Join us in 2015, okay?
Wait, the dog hasn't ended your life yet.
Hollywood doesn't understand
Unless it's Mad Max
Seriously, Mad Max gets it
no but really
Not a meme, but still worthy of a shoutout
Women still face this opportunity gap in 2015, and it is undoubtedly a serious problem. Typical sexist and anti-feminist arguments against basic equality for women can dull any conversation. Still, if you need to remind yourself (or a slightly misinformed friend) that combating sexism can indeed be simple, trying a little humor might help. If you ever doubted that one hilarious meme could explain male privilege more clearly than another debate, the internet, as always, has your back.
Images: International Feminist Book Club (1), Feminist Memes (3), Feminist Mad Max (3), Effedeka (1), Unshaded-Chronicles (1), Sweaterbarnes (2)/Tumblr.com; Bustle (1), The Fresh Pickle (1)/Instagram; Quickmeme.com (2)
