Five Things Feminism Has Taught Me:

A few days back, Sappho tagged me on this subject. Read her excellent comments here.

I have learned so much from feminism and feminists that limiting myself to five things seems sort of like answering an essay question with the word, "Yup." The wonderful thing about feminism and feminist thought is that I am constantly learning. I look forward to a life-long feminist education.

So far, here are five random things, of dozens, that I have learned. This list is by no means inclusive or exhaustive of my thoughts on this subject, and they are in no specific order.

1. I am an active participant in my reality. The patriarchy defines me only if do not exercise my right to define myself. Feminism has taught me not only that I have the power to define myself on my own terms, but it has provided me with excellent role models.
2. Women have a special obligation to ensure that our history is recorded orally, visually, and otherwise. If we let them, those who oppress us will erase our contributions.
3. The bickering among women over who deserves to call themselves a feminist divides us. Our movement does not benefit by these philosophical debates. When we are busy deciding who is a "real" feminist, the patriarchy is strengthened.
4. Because we understand what it is like to be systematically under-paid, under-valued, under-served, and under-educated, we must, must, must, dedicate ourselves to fighting all forms of oppression, where ever we see it.
5. While acknowledging the tremendous gains we have made, we must be ever vigilant to preserve and protect these rights. Our mothers and grandmothers fought for that we must never take for granted.

Now, I tag Bitch Phd.