SAMANTHA MAY S.

PABUSTAN BSEd – English 2C

EM 8: Survey of Afro-Asian Literature MW: 10:30 – 12:00 PM

ACTIVTY 4 ESSAY

Everybody Can Be a Feminist

Feminism, as a global movement advocating for gender equality, transcends geographical
boundaries and impacts societies worldwide. In the context of the Philippines, feminism plays a
significant role in addressing gender-based issues and promoting equality. In this essay, we will
explore five situations or issues related to feminism in the Philippines that resonate with the
feminist movement’s core principles and goals: (1) misinterpreting feminism in relationships; (2)
exclusion of women regarding on money; (3) Leadership; (4) Marriage; and (5) Education.
Firstly, misconceptions on feminism. One common misconception is that feminism
promotes female dominance in relationships. This view misunderstands feminism’s core principle
of equality. Feminism seeks to break free from traditional gender roles and power imbalances, not
to replace them with new imbalances. Some believe that feminism dictates individuals should want
or prefer in relationships. Feminism respects individual choices and preferences. Another
misconception about feminism is promoting blame and resentment toward one gender. Feminism
is not about assigning guilt but about acknowledging and addressing systematic inequalities.
Secondly, feminism and the economic exclusion of women. The gender wage gap remains
a stark reality in many parts of the world. Women, on average, earn less than men for the same
work or work of equal value. Feminism challenges this exclusionary practice by advocating for
equal pay for equal work. Another thing is occupational segregation. It is where women are
disproportionately concentrated in lower-paying jobs and sectors. Feminism emphasizes the need
to break down these barriers and promote gender diversity across all professions.
Thirdly, underrepresentation of women in leadership roles. One of the most prominent
issues is the persistent underrepresentation of women in leadership positions across various
sectors, including politics, business, academia, and media. This underrepresentation reflects
systematic biases and discrimination that hinder women’s advancement. Women in leadership
positions often face backlash and stereotypes that challenge their legitimacy and competence. This
can discourage women from pursuing leadership roles and hinder their effectiveness when they
do.
Next, marriage against feminism. The relationship between feminism and marriage is
complex and multifaceted. Traditional marriage often placed women in subservient roles, with
prescribed domestic and caregiving duties, while men were the primary breadwinners. It
challenges harmful traditions that enforce inequality but does not reject relationships based on
mutual love, respect, and consent.
SAMANTHA MAY S. PABUSTAN BSEd – English 2C
EM 8: Survey of Afro-Asian Literature MW: 10:30 – 12:00 PM
Lastly, individuals and educational institutions can hold and propagate beliefs or ideologies
that may conflict with feminist principles. Some educational materials and curricula may
inadvertently perpetuate gender biases, stereotypes, or unequal representations of women and men.
These biases can reinforce traditional gender roles and norms, which may run counter to feminist
ideals.
In conclusion, feminism is not only for women to defend. Everybody can be a feminist.
Embracing feminism is not a choice between genders, it is a commitment to creating a fairer, more
inclusive world where every individual is afforded equal rights and opportunities, regardless of
their gender.