In our last publication, I promised that we would read Martha Clara Nakato today. Ladies and gentlemen, here she goes.

Globally, feminism remains one of the most misunderstood and fiercely debated topics, with diverse perspectives continuously shaping its evolution. As communities continue to confront persistent gender inequalities, the conversation surrounding feminism remains as complex and contentious as ever. To explore these varying viewpoints, I asked random individuals from various walks of life, “Who is a feminist, and what does feminism mean to you?” The responses were astonishingly eye-opening, each shaped by the unique personal experiences and cultural contexts in which the individuals had encountered feminism or interacted with feminists.

Most responses expressed genuine enthusiasm for feminism, recognizing it as a movement for gender equality. However, nearly everyone also pointed out the pervasive stereotypes and harsh generalizations that often surround both the feminist movement and its advocates. The contrast between support for feminism and the negative perceptions of feminists was striking. It was both fascinating and troubling to hear about the deep divisions and misunderstandings about feminism, even within spaces that are supposed to uphold its core values. A recurring theme was the rise of what many described as “Toxic feminism”. Many perceived this version of feminism as harmful, shameful, and extreme. So, how did an ideology meant to empower and unite women become something that, at times, seems to silence, divide, and disempower?

First, it’s important to recognize that many people support core feminist principles, even if they don’t identify with the feminist movement itself. The perception of feminism as a toxic agenda concerns me. When we discuss “toxic feminism," we should clarify that the ideology of feminism isn’t toxic; rather, it's certain behaviors and approaches of some feminists that can create problems. When feminist advocacy becomes marked by antagonism, aggression, and negativity, it fosters division and excludes the experiences of certain women, including alienating potential allies like men. What’s even more troubling is the toxicity that can permeate even the most “organized” feminist circles, leading to disillusionment and feelings of exclusion among feminist advocates.

As we reflect on how we practice and advocate for feminism. A few thoughts from respondents piqued my curiosity…….

“The village women who don’t come off as strong feminists coexist peacefully with men. Does this mean they are weak? No! In fact, many practice feminism and are in stable relationships with men”.

“Feminism, as hopeful as it can be, could also be destructive if we don’t carry every woman with us or if we fail to engage our minds in the process.”

“As long as men are tied to their societal gender roles, women will continue to experience emotional, physical, and economic manipulation and abuse. This is why we need men in feminist spaces, to help them connect with their feminine energy.”

For me, these perspectives revealed that the evolution of what some term “toxic feminism” is well-intentioned and threatens to fracture the unity that has historically driven the struggle for gender equality and women's rights. 

For us to honor the rich legacy of feminism, we must get back on track and strive to reclaim its authentic roots, ensuring that our efforts remain focused, inclusive, transparent and truly transformative. We must create and encourage feminist spaces where all women, regardless of their choices, be it career-focused or family-oriented, feel valued and supported. We must move away from shaming traditional roles, but rather celebrate the diversity of women’s experiences and the various ways we each seek fulfillment. We can’t negotiate on intersectionality and must address it since women’s experiences are shaped by various factors and interlinked with multiple vulnerabilities. When we acknowledge these differences, we open doors to crafting solutions that genuinely resonate with the needs of all women.

We must scrap the narrative of “US Vs THEM” as it overshadows the real-life conversations we need to have, especially those that acknowledge the struggles of all genders in the fight against inequality and inequalities. If we fail to engage with diverse perspectives, we risk missing vital opportunities for solidarity and collective advancement. When all is said and done, it is essential to recognize that feminism is not just about women but is also a foundation for the elevation of humanity. We must, therefore, encourage and groom a feminist movement that transcends divisions, one that celebrates diversity, embraces intersectionality, and unites all who recognize the inherent worth and dignity of every woman. May we live to remember that everyone benefits when gender equality and dignity are achieved for all.