At one end of the globe, we have Emma Watson speaking before the United Nation, and Malala Yousafzai sharing her views as a feminist. At the other end of the globe, Twinkle decided to share her thoughts, true to her style, when a brisk walk with a friend, turned into a heated debate. A debate on feminism.
In this society, we have women (and a large population of men too) who understand the true meaning of feminism. Others are scared of the ‘F’ word and blanket it in diplomatic terms, reflecting their misguided interpretation of the idea and purpose behind this movement. Lastly, we have the anti-feminists who bring to the table reasons for their disagreement as diverse and creative as the costumes of Lady Gaga.
I was just recovering from the onslaught of words that shy away from feminism – Humanism, Equalism, Egalitarianism – and just as I gathered my balance, ‘wombist’ was thrown at me like an unsuspecting curve ball.
I am as peeved as Twinkle when I witness the amount of lobbying required to ensure that women enjoy the same liberties that men enjoy in full freedom. The ground reality of disparities and inequalities that women are subjected to, however, require such lobbying. It is the result of such efforts in the past, by feminists, famous and otherwise, that have empowered women with the power of choice, today.
In this cocktail of jargons and definitions, we have celebrities renouncing feminism in the name of equalism, non-men haters, non-bra burners etc. – reasons that I find hard to make sense of. Twinkle just garnished this drink with her wisdom and humor.
The actual work of feminism stretches beyond celebrity statements and endorsements. It extends beyond these catchphrases and jargons that are minted every week like new money.
The existence of a glass ceiling is an indicator that women, who are as talented as men, are not recognised and rewarded on equal terms. Economical, emotional and financial independence have equipped women to ride their own horse, shining in their own designer armor. A very small percentage of the elite can however boast of that luxury.
Twinkle worked in an industry where probably Bobby was paid more for the same movie debut. To this day, the harsh reality of pay disparity between leading male and female actors continues. I believe it is this thought that motivated her to write, “I believe that we are superior and still do not get the same opportunities”.
Feminism is not about either of the genders being better than the other. Each comes with their own set of strengths and weaknesses. The opportunities and platforms provided to both, to capitalise on their skills must be equal.
It is not about pre-term health of an infant but the option to embrace life rather than be murdered based on gender. It is not about higher IQ scores,but about the opportunity to attend school and the right to education (without the fear of being shot or abused). It most certainly is not about outliving men, but the ability to live those extended years in complete freedom, in a society that guards, protects and celebrates their longevity.
Twinkle intended to convey this very message but I believe it got lost in the delivery.
Probably every time Twinkle goes for her walks, she sees these women, who are balancing work and home, and are not validated at either end. Women at the grassroots, who juggle both, and battle inequality at the start of their day. She screams loud, “I am a feminist” because she wants to break out of the many shackles that define her everyday life. All she needs is a column filled with a Twinkle of reality, to echo her voice and give her hope.
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