Break the chain: anti-feminist college life

Photo: A symbol from Germany’s Women’s Movement in the 1970s. Photo by unknown author [Public Domain], via Wikimedia Commons 

Ashley Viera/Contributing Writer

Our college years can be an exciting and fun experience. However, for some (specifically women), it can be hastily ruined when ugly, disgusting sexism intervenes.

It has been reported that during this year and onwards, women are being encouraged to compete in heinously sexist endeavors for various reasons, such as to earn the title of “Mrs.” of their halls.

Some of these include acts such as lap dancing and eating bananas from other women’s cleavages. So, ladies, here are some helpful tips to survive your seemingly everlasting college years:

1. It is OK to say “no.” This might just be the most arduous one of them all but arguably the most necessary as well. There will be a lot of men during your college years trying to degrade your very essence. Don’t give them the power and, as Demi Lovato says, “Stay strong!”

2. Don’t break under the pressure. There will be many times throughout your time in college where you will be pressured to participate in degrading activities. Don’t do it! It`s easier to become a victim of sexism if you are presented as one. Think of it this way: first impressions last a lifetime and you only get this one chance during college, so make it a good one.

3. Don’t drink to the point of passing out. Many parties will take place during your time in college, and if you choose to be a part of it, drink with caution. Know your limits when drinking; when you begin to feel tipsy, stop drinking immediately. It is easier to be taken advantage of when you’re unconscious and incapable of making a rational decision.

4. Actions speak louder than words. If you see others falling victim to sexism, don’t just stand by and watch it occur. Instead, take the initiative and stop it. Let those participating in it know that it is not OK. That it is not only embarrassing for women but low in character of men.

5. Embrace feminism. As women, it is not only important to preach feminism but practice it as well. It provides a sense of unity which strengthens the power women have to fight sexism and fire back strongly when encountered by it.

6. Spread the word. It’s not enough to believe in feminism and equality for women. In order for progress and change to ever occur, one must inform others of the wrongfulness of sexism. You can do this by sharing your thoughts about it on social networking clubs and joining local college feminist clubs or groups.

For women, starting college can be a frightening experience for more reasons than one–sexism being one of them. So, men, before you grope a woman’s chest or harass her by yelling obscene comments that will forever remain in the mind, think twice about whether it is the morally right thing to do. Because I got news for you: it’s not.

opinion@fiusm.com

Source:

1. “A feminist guide to freshers’ week,” via The Guardian