As proud feminists, there are just some things we’re tired of hearing. So allow us to educate those people who continue to say stuff that really rubs us the wrong way with these 13 things not to say to a feminist.
1. “I don’t believe in bringing men down.”
Guess what? Neither do we. Feminism is about equal rights, not one side winning out over the other.
2. “The wage gap is totally justifiable.”
Um, actually it’s not.
3. “You’ll never get married.”
If a man can’t accept our thirst for equality, then we’d rather stay single.
4. “Cat-calling means you’re hot.”
Sorry, but we don’t feel the need to be whistled at and ridiculed by strangers on the street to boost our confidence.
5. “That’s women’s work.”
This comment often involves a kitchen or maternal joke. We’re not laughing.
6. “Guys can’t be feminists.”
Actually, they can. Here are a few shining examples: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, John Legend, Harry Styles and Daniel Radcliffe.
7. “But you’re so girly.”
We can still wear makeup and shave our legs as feminists, you know?
8. “Sexism isn’t nearly as bad as it used to be.”
There's been progress, but it’s still a completely ongoing struggle. And we have a long way to go.
9. “I think men and women should be equal. I’m not a feminist, though.”
Yes, you are.
10. “Why are you angry all the time?”
So when women talk about the things that bother them about society they come off as angry? It’s not like we’re burning our bras in protest; we just want to have a discussion about equality.
11. “So you object to chivalry.”
EVERYONE should be polite. Manners are great, so please feel free to open the door for us or take something heavy off our hands.
12. “Men face discrimination, too.”
Everyone is discriminated against in some form, but in this case we’re concerned about deeply ingrained institutions and attitudes that keep women from achieving equality.
13. “Men and women are equal now.”
Not even close.