Overcoming Conservatism and Supporting Modern Feminism

It's essential to recognize that every person is an individual, with personal beliefs and experiences, rather than simply a propagandized robot. Embracing feminism means supporting the rights and equality of all individuals, irrespective of political affiliation. This article examines the reasons why conservatives, despite social pressures, should support modern feminism.

Why You Should Support Feminism

Feminism as an Ethical Choice: Supporting feminism is the right thing to do, regardless of the political leanings of its advocates. Holding liberal allies in high esteem when they fight for gender equality does not diminish your commitment to these values. Engaging in discussions with and supporting feminist grassroots efforts can help foster a more just and equitable society.

Condemning Conservative Illusions: Liking conservative candidates over progressive ones, such as George W. Bush over Barack Obama, highlights a misguided and narrow worldview. Bush, though often viewed positively within conservative circles, was notably ill-equipped to handle the responsibilities of the presidency. In contrast, Obama's enlightened and transformative leadership paved the way for progress and equality.

Support Issues, Not Organizations: You don't need to align with every feminist organization to support gender equality. You can champion causes such as equal representation in media and entertainment without needing to agree with every policy position. Libraries and cultural organizations seeking to diversify their content can greatly benefit from such support.

Libertarian Feminists as Allies: Many conservatives might find more common ground with libertarian feminists. This subgroup embraces individual freedom, economic justice, and gender equality, making them a valuable partnership. Engaging with these groups can help bridge ideological divides and amplify progressive voices.

Challenging Conservative Stereotypes

Gender Equality, Not a Conservative Value Per Se: The idea that gender equality is inherently a conservative value is a myth. Throughout history, individuals of varying political beliefs have championed these principles. Rejecting the notion that conservatism inherently opposes equality can lead to a better understanding of both conservatism and feminism.

Trump’s Impact on Conservatism: The election of Donald Trump as a symbol of conservatism has disrupted traditional party affiliations. This shift is liberating for individuals who wish to support progressive causes, as it undermines the stereotype that conservative credentials mean remaining ideologically stagnant. Real progress can be made without becoming part of a rigid, unyielding political machine.

Decoupling Ideology from Merit: The argument that you should ignore feminist advocacy because its proponents are liberal is flawed. The merit of an issue should be judged based on its impact, not the ideology of its proponents. Embracing this perspective allows for a more open and inclusive stance on social issues, fostering a more just society.

Conclusion

Modern feminism is about promoting equality and respect for all individuals. Regardless of political affiliation, it is crucial to recognize and support the marginalized and underrepresented. By aligning with feminist principles, conservatives can play a vital role in driving social justice and progress.