Being a feminist is not a bad thing, yet for some reason many famous celebs who could help the cause of feminism refuse to acknowledge themselves as feminists
Whether we like it or not, celebs seriously influence society, especially younger generations. So what they promote (and what they do not promote) can have a serious effect on the ability for culture to change. Recently, some celebs (Beyonce, Olivia Wilde, etc) have started to talk about feminism in a positive light. However, celebs, oddly enough female ones, continue to deflate and incriminate feminism. Specifically, several female celebs have recently declared that they are NOT feminists. As if feminism is something to be ashamed of or some radical social belief. Normalizing the idea through celebs that feminism is normal (which is not the only or even the best way, but is helpful) could have a great impact on equality.
Katy Perry
In an interview with Jon Stewart, Katy Perry said, "I am not a feminist, but I do believe in the strength of women". This seems to say that while women can be strong, they do not deserve a movement and that there is some negative connotation in being a feminist.
Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga stated "I'm not a feminist. I hail men, I love men, I celebrate American male culture -- beer, bars, and muscle cars." Gaga later told the LA Times she is a "little bit of a feminist". It is surprising, to say the least, to see Gaga on this list. She is a known activist of human rights. Her quote makes it seem as if feminism is about hating men and "male" culture. Feminism is not about hate, it is about equality. Feminists can have boyfriends, husbands, guy friends and love beer and bars and muscle cars. Feminism is not restrictive, feminism does not demand male hate. Also, the addition that she is a "little bit of a feminist" also seems outrageous.
Taylor Swift
In an interview with The Daily Beast, Taylor Swift said,"I don't really think about things as guys versus girls. I never have. I was raised by parents who brought me up to think if you work as hard as guys, you can go far in life". Swift has influence over thousands of young women and girls, some as young as 9 or 10. Making these girls (and boys, too!) believe that feminism pits gender against gender is a huge miscommunication. Feminism is not about fighting, it's about equality. Even worse, Swift says, "if you [females] work as hard as guys, you can go far in life". This seems to suggest that guys inherently work harder than girls, which a ridiculous statement. Shouldn't children of both genders be raised to work as hard as inspirational and amazing people, male or female?
Carrie Underwood
In an interview with Bang Showbiz, Carrie Underwood said "I wouldn't go so far as to say I am a feminist, that can come off as a negative connotation. But I am a strong female". This is the biggest and most important reason why people are afraid of the "F" word. Feminism should not have a negative connotation, it should have a strong and empowering connotation. It should not be considered restrictive or negative, in a perfect world being a feminist would be "normal" for all races, genders, and people.
Sarah Jessica Parker, Madonna, Demi Moore, Susan Sarandon, and more
All of these women have been quoted saying that they aren't feminists, but they are humanists. But what is wrong with identifying as a feminist, too?
In closing
STOP being afraid of being a feminist. Feminism is an aspect of humanism, so if you consider yourself a humanist you must also consider yourself a feminist in some aspect. Feminism is not pitting the genders against each other, it is about equality. Celebs can help remove this negative connotation by speaking positively about feminism. Some have already begun to do this, like Rashida Jones, Beyonce, and Olivia Wilde. Celebs have power and influence and if they stop being afraid of associating themselves with the "f" word, some great progress could be made.
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