Title: So You Want to Be a Male Feminist? Here Are 11 Simple Rules to Follow - Everyday Feminism
Headings: So You Want to Be a Male Feminist? Here Are 11 Simple Rules to Follow
So You Want to Be a Male Feminist? Here Are 11 Simple Rules to Follow
1. Understand that women are leading the way and affirm their capable leadership. Don’t assert yourself at the forefront.
2. When it comes to issues that directly pertain to women’s bodies and experiences, be quiet and listen.
3. Men don’t get to determine if they are “allies” to the feminist movement. Women do.
4. Take responsibility for addressing men’s issues with other men, rather than expecting women in feminism to do all of the work.
5. Use your male privilege to encourage other men to work towards gender equality under women’s leadership.
6. Don’t use the label of ‘feminist’ as a way to try to get women to like you — that’s disingenuous and counterproductive.
7. When given opportunities to execute professional tasks related to feminist issues, consider referring other women instead.
Don’t be afraid to suggest a woman peer if you’re not the best suited for the event or discourse.
8. Educate yourself about the history of feminism and how women of different backgrounds have approached the movement.
9. Ensure your feminism is intersectional.
10. Acknowledge that sometimes, women need opportunities to discuss feminist issues without the presence of men. And that’s okay.
11. When women criticize your involvement in feminism, don’t talk over them or talk down to them. Actively listen and be accountable.
***

Content: Instead of talking over women or worse, making unfounded assumptions about what they experience on a daily basis, be quiet and listen to what women have to say, and redirect other men to their voices. 3. Men don’t get to determine if they are “allies” to the feminist movement. Women do. As a man, being a feminist isn’t some special badge you earn after going to a rally, speaking out for gender equality, or holding another man accountable for sexist behavior. It’s not about getting “ ally cookies ” or a pat on the back every time you do something that’s considered pro-feminism. Rather, it’s about making sure your actions aren’t sexist, transphobic, or reinforcements of gender-based bigotry . It is not going above and beyond to act respectfully and in solidarity with women working towards gender equality. 4. Take responsibility for addressing men’s issues with other men, rather than expecting women in feminism to do all of the work.