Whatever cause you're fighting for, defending your beliefs can sometimes be tough. After all, not everyone is going to agree with you. Not everyone is going to understand you. And more importantly, not everyone is going to support you. When someone dismisses your beliefs, you may not necessarily agree with them, so how do you stay inspired—especially when it comes to feminism?
The feminist movement is one we should all be advocating for. It's a movement that has fought for voting rights, equal pay, access to education and so much more. To us, it seems like a no-brainer to support feminism, but unfortunately, you'll come across those who disagree.
When people try to get you down about your feminist beliefs, here are seven videos to watch that will restore your faith in the movement!
1. Miss Representation
This movie exposes mainstream media for promoting limited and degrading portrayals of women and for contributing to how women are under-represented in positions of influence in the U.S. Even the trailer will give you the girl power feels!
2. Half the Sky
This documentary takes place in 10 countries, telling stories of women who are fighting back against inequality across the world. Each film sends the message that our rights are in the hands of women everywhere and shows how celebrities (and all women who watch Half the Sky) have the power to make a difference.
3. The Invisible War
This documentary, which explores the military rape epidemic, tells the stories of survivors. It even received a nomination for Best Documentary Feature at the 2014 Academy Awards. This movie brings light and attention to a problem that is routinely swept under the rug.
4. Ted Talk: Violence against women – it’s a men’s issue
Jackson Katz talks about how domestic violence and sexual abuse is tied to “definitions of manhood” and how we should be leaders of change. This "idea worth spreading" will make you think in a way you haven't before.
5. Ted Talk: My daughter, Malala
Ziauddin Yousafzai talks about how women and men deserve equal opportunities in all aspects of life by sharing stories from about his daughter, Malala, who was shot by the Taliban in 2012 for going to school. This Ted Talk is a reminder that there are still many countries around the world where women's access to education is still limited.
6. 10 Hours of Walking in NYC as a Woman
This YouTube video features raw footage of one woman walking down the streets of New York City to draw attention to catcalling. She experiences more than 100+ instances of verbal harassment over a 10 hour period.
7. Re: Feminism
In this video, Joseph Gordon-Levitt discusses feminism and its real definition—and in doing so, he'll make you reflect back on what feminism means to you.
Feminism comes in all shapes, sizes, forms and definitions. There isn’t one way of thinking about this word that is right or wrong. Use these videos to help you define what you think about feminism, and don’t let anyone get in the way of those beliefs!