A feminist is anyone who recognizes the equality and full humanity of women and men.
Gloria Steinem
Every day I log on to Twitter (“woke Nigerian Twitter “), there is always some discussion around feminism, the role of women in marriage and the workplace on my timeline. On some days it is a civil discussion, on other days there is name calling and online snatching of wigs. I do not know about you, but most of the time I am not a fan. I like Twitter, but these days I feel that the greatest advantage of social media is also the greatest disadvantage. Everybody has a voice and stage to push their ideas irrespective of how right or wrong that idea is.
Feminism, in my opinion, is making sure that all girls and women know that there are limitless options and opportunities ahead of them. Feminism is making sure that no position or opportunity is made inaccessible because of gender. Feminism is doing what I can to help the lady next to me achieve her goals.
Feminism isn’t about making women strong. Women are already strong. It’s about changing the way the world perceives that strength.
G.D. Anderson
One of the reasons why I am passionate about feminism is because of my father. I grew up in Nigeria, during a time when Oby Ezekwesili and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala were ministers and my father would tell me that I could be a minister. When I think about it now, that was a representation for women and whether I make it to becoming a minister or not, I have legends that remind me of our possible it is.
To all the little girls who are watching, never doubt that you are valuable and powerful and deserving of every chance and opportunity in the world to pursue and achieve your own dreams.
Hillary Clinton in her concession speech
This is why I am a feminist, this is why I join my voice with the voice of many others asking for diversity and representation at all levels.
I raise up my voice—not so I can shout, but so that those without a voice can be heard…we cannot succeed when half of us are held back.
Malala Yousafzai
Let me know in the comments, why do you use your voice?
