“I’m not a feminist but… (Insert feminist idea here)”

I can’t count the number of times I’ve heard men and women preface feminist ideas with “I’m not a feminist but…”

In such a time of progress and forward thinking, why are so many people still scared of the word “feminist”?

Like most of my generation of female college students, I’ve been taught from a very young age that being a woman isn’t going to stop me from succeeding. I can do anything a man can do. Some things I can even do better.

However, although most of the women I know agree with my previous statements, they still shutter at the word. Why?

Being a feminist doesn’t mean I’m going to spend every moment of every day complaining that women are treated unfairly. Being a feminist doesn’t mean I’m a man hater who takes every opportunity to insult the male gender. Being a feminist doesn’t mean I burn my bras or neglect personal hygiene. Being a feminist doesn’t mean I don’t enjoy getting dressed up or feeling pretty. Being a feminist doesn’t mean I’m a “bitch” or a “loud-mouthed woman” or “unladylike.”

Being a feminist simply means that I believe women deserve equal respect as men, equal opportunities as men, and equal appreciation as men. I’ll stand up for what I believe in and it’s as simple as that.

It’s silly that women work so hard in school and at their jobs but are still unable to recognize the feminist role they’re playing. Recognize it and embrace it ladies!

My name is Sarah Helfgott. I am a student. I am a sorority girl. I am a journalist. I am a clothing fanatic. I am a humanist. I am a cat lover.  I am a woman. AND I AM A FEMINIST!