TIME Magazine is offering their fourth annual “worst word” poll, asking readers to vote for the word or phrase which they are soooo tired of hearing. Included on the list are some words that I would vote for in a second–like “obvi” and “sorry not sorry,” as well as some I still use without shame and a few I’ve never even heard of (guess I’m out of touch).
One word on the list, however, is shocking, and should, in my opinion, be even more used: feminist.
That’s right. TIME is asking people if they are just so sick of hearing the word feminist.
The blurb about the word describes why one might want it banned:
You have nothing against feminism itself, but when did it become a thing that every celebrity had to state their position on whether this word applies to them, like some politician declaring a party? Let’s stick to the issues and quit throwing this label around like ticker tape at a Susan B. Anthony parade.
No. Freakin’. Way.
So maybe I’m just out of the world of pop culture and celebrity enough that I haven’t heard all these people declare whether they are feminists or not, but I don’t care. I’ve heard plenty of discussion in other places, like the classroom and the church.
I am a Feminist. I know some women–particularly of the younger generations–don’t want to claim that title, fearing that people interpret it as meaning they’re “man-haters.” I get it. Feminists have sometimes gotten a bad rap. Side note: I was in a feminist Facebook group and had to leave because of the increasing number of anti- trans posts. It was one of those “if this is what a feminist is, I don’t want to be one” moments that make me understand the hesitation of some to use that word.
But I will continue to claim that label/title, continue to rail against patriarchy, especially given my position as Christian clergy. Do you know how many people believe you can’t be a Christian and a Feminist? Seriously.
Ok, I’m getting off the soapbox, and hopefully TIME can get a clue.
“Feminist” is sticking around. Obvi.
birch & raven 