Feminism a la Emma Watson

Emma Watson has been a pretty inspirational woman for a while, and she voiced her opinions on feminism during a speech about gender equality at the UN back in September.

But it’s her comments on feminism in an interview conducted just after the speech that are arguably even more impactful, with Watson explaining that feminism is not “prescriptive or dogmatic,” and should offer women a choice.

Speaking to Elle magazine, she said: “Feminism is not here to dictate to you. It’s not prescriptive, it’s not dogmatic. All we are here to do is give you a choice. If you want to run for Prime Minister you can. If you don’t, that’s wonderful too. Shave your armpits, don’t shave them. Wear flats one day, heels the next. These things are so irrelevant and surface to what it’s all really about, and I wish people wouldn’t get caught up in that.”

Feminism a la Emma Watson

Watson was also quick to address criticism of the word “feminism”.

She said: “I understand that feminism is not a gender-neutral word. Historically, it has been associated with aggression, and also it has the word “feminine” in it, which is harder for men to accept. But there is no other word. By doing this, I am hoping it can be reimagined and redefined.”

She continued to explain that that there is no such thing as a “typical feminist,” and women should be autonomous.

Watson explained: “We want to empower women to do exactly what they want, to be true to themselves, to have the opportunity to develop. Women should feel free. There is no typical feminist, there is nothing anywhere that says you have to meet a certain set of criteria.”

Well said, Emma.