Column: 'Be better, and embrace and appreciate feminism'

THERE are two important themes running through this column.

The first is the huge significance of feminism during my upbringing.

The second is how those around me can “be better”, so to speak, when it comes to appreciating and embracing women’s rights and equality.

As a child, I was always told to “sit like a lady”, “don’t talk over him”, “let him win” and that “I’m bossy for a girl”’.

However, as I grew up, I became more and more passionate about feminist topics.

I couldn’t understand why, if I was wearing a short skirt, it mattered to men outside on the road.

My views were often laughed off by older family members, because of my age. What would I know?

I knew my opinions were valid, though, and now I find it fulfilling and rewarding trying to promote feminism at home here in Colchester.

At school, we’re always encouraged to learn new things and form our own views.

Inspiration - actress Emma Watson has gained recognition for her women’s rights work and is a role model for columnist Emily Eames

Yet as soon as we do, we’re told we’re too young.

However, other youngsters, like myself, are becoming more and more passionate about the subject and feminism is now seen as equality for both sexes.

You see, people also want to break down stereotypes for men, too.

Feminism has undoubtedly changed me.

It’s changed my life and thanks to social media, I’ve learnt so much.

I won’t blab about empowerment, but it has affected me, by wanting to change and influence the younger generation around me. Just because everyone around us has a view, we can still form our own.

My beliefs and opinions make me the person I am and I hope they rub off on others.

A lack of feminism is damaging to not only young girls, but also young boys.

They are taught it isn’t masculine to cry and that showing emotion is wrong.

Being the only child in my house, I haven’t been able to speak to other children about my views.

I was always the only feminist around my household.

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However, now I’m older, I firmly believe we should all be feminists, so my friends don’t worry about seeming too bossy or the boy next to me in school doesn’t feel less masculine because of crying.

Or so my grandparents realise not only nan has to cook.

Because feminism will result in a world of freedom.

By calling people out on their sly, patriarchal or misogynistic comments, we will be better feminists.

Reading and gaining information gives us knowledge and certainly helps, but it’s even more important to listen.

Listen to the effect of patriarchy and work together for everyone’s benefit.

That way, we can all be better feminists - and better people, in general.