A few weeks ago, Kim Kardashian stirred up controversy at the BlogHer 16 Conference, when she boldly stated that she doesn't consider herself a feminist. During the event, Kim said, "Everyone always says, are you a feminist? And I don't think that I am."
Kim's discussion at BlogHer made us realize that she really doesn't understand what feminism is. Kim said that she didn't want to be labeled as a feminist because she doesn't see herself as the 'free the nipple' kind of person, but feminism is much more than that.
In response to the backlash over her comments, Kim penned an essay on her site, explaining her stance on feminism. She began by making it clear that she is aware of what exactly a feminist is.
"For me, a feminist is someone who advocates for the civil and social rights and liberties of all people, regardless of their gender," she wrote. "Anyone who believes that women should have the same choices and opportunities as men when it comes to education and employment, their bodies and their lifestyles."
Then, she admitted that she can understand why people would be quick to call her a feminist. "I'm all about empowering and uplifting women," Kim said. "I work hard, I make my own money, I'm comfortable and confident in my own skin, and I encourage women to be open and honest about their sexuality, and to embrace their beauty and their bodies."
At that point, it seemed like Kim was basically contradicting herself. She previously made it clear that she doesn't consider herself a feminist, yet listed all the reasons why she falls into that category.
Kim then went on to explain the root of her issue with feminism, saying that she agrees with the ideas of feminism, but doesn't want to label herself.
"I feel that being grouped or labeled can create separation between people who do (or don't) fall into certain categories, when they may actually share many of the same beliefs and goals. It's not about he, she, gay, straight, black, white. The fight for equality is about ALL human beings being treated equally—regardless of gender, sexuality or ethnicity."
Her concluding thoughts only (again) contradicted her whole essay. "I'll always fight for women's rights. Always. I support women to the fullest. But, at the end of the day, no one should feel pressured to be labeled as anything just because they believe in certain things and support certain values or ideals."
We know that labels (especially those based on appearance) tend to divide people into groups, but if you firmly agree with a set of beliefs, there's no reason why you wouldn't want to proudly declare those ideals. While we understand what Kim was trying to say, it seems strange for an empowered woman like herself to want to stay away from the feminist label. Feminism is grounded upon achieving equality, not dividing or separating people. If everyone believes in equality, then shouldn't we all be proudly supporting feminism?