What is Feminism?

In short, equality.

Feminism advocates for women’s rights, dismantling oppression and achieving equality between genders.

  • Social equality- addressing gender roles, cultural norms and societal opportunities
  • Political equality- ensuring women’s participation in government and political decisions
  • Personal autonomy- empowering individuals to make choices free from discrimination 
  • Economic equality- achieving equal pay, access to jobs and opportunities

Micro-feminism 

Micro-feminism refers to small, everyday actions and practices that challenge gender inequality. Its focus is at the ‘micro’ level to challenge norms in households structures, interpersonal dynamics and communities.

Micro-feminism emphasises change in your immediate environment, such as workplaces, schools or social circles. Unlike traditional activism, it doesn’t necessarily require organising protests or creating policies, it is about living feminist values in everyday interactions.

Examples

  • Challenging gender stereotypes: Speaking up when someone says ‘that’s a man’s/woman’s job’.
  • Pointing out when women’s achievements are downplayed or when someone uses gender-biased language
  • Encouraging equal participation in subjects traditionally dominated by one gender, like STEM for girls or arts for boys
  • Supporting films, books or shows created by women or featuring strong, diverse, female leads
  • Reporting or calling out online harassment or misogyny 

Micro-feminism highlights the importance of individual actions in shaping cultural norms and fostering equality. The effects of incremental change are pivotal in creating a cumulative effect and contribute to a larger systematic shift. It complements the broader feminist movement by ensuring that change begins in the personal and local spheres, making feminism more relatable and accessible for everyone. 

In the future

With the assistance of social media platforms the micro feminist movement can be amplified by increasing awareness and fostering inclusive approaches to gender equality.