If you're all about equality for men and women, then you'll certainly appreciate this collection of the best feminist memes of 2015. Feminism, as a social movement, has gone through various stages throughout the past few decades and this year has most definitely represented a leap forward. In the past couple of years, feminists have emphasized the inclusion of men and directly addressed the negative misconceptions that are often associated with the gender equality movement. Although the speech was made prior to 2015, I like to refer back to Emma Watson's address to the United Nations, which has helped define modern-day feminism.
I was appointed six months ago and the more I have spoken about feminism, the more I have realised that fighting for women's rights has too often become synonymous with men-hating. ... Both men and women should feel free to be sensitive. Both men and women should feel free to be strong. ... Men – I would like to take this opportunity to extend your formal invitation. Gender equality is your issue, too.
Speeches, like this one, encourage both men and women to think before they engage in perpetuating gender stereotypes.
One look at these memes, and the idea will stick.
1) Gender Presentation
Gender identity is ingrained at a very young age. Who says a boy can't like sparkles or bright colors? Who says girls can't play with Star Wars Legos?
2) Hey Girl...
How can you not include the "hey girl" memes?
3) Don't Be Silenced
You've got a voice and I know you love to use it.
4) Women Can Be Super Heroes Too
And the film industry has taken note. Wonder Woman will be out in theaters at some point in 2017.
5) Women Who Cook
Pretty sure everyone — male and female — have spent some time in the kitchen at least once or twice so this should be a "duh" type of thing.
6) "Appropriate" Dress
Be careful of wearing tank tops — shoulders can be ultra distracting.
7) Victim Blaming Is Not Okay
Rape cases are rampant on college campuses but women refrain from reporting them for fear of being blamed.
8) And No, The Way We Dress Isn't An Excuse
Couldn't say it any better.
9) Women In The Media
We need to see less of that and more of this...
10) Political Intervention
Cheers to Canada's new prime minister. As we witnessed with the legalization of gay marriage, sometimes political intervention is necessary in order to catalyze social progress.
11) The Patriarchy
Ryan Gosling's "hey girl" memes can never be outdone... but the recent Mad Max memes are pretty great nonetheless.
12) I'll Smile If I Want To
To all of you cat callers on the street: I'd like to hear you demand a guy to smile. Yeah, that's what I thought.
13) Free The Nipple
Guys have them too, amirite?
Images: Feminist Memes/ Tumblr (4); Memegenerator (1)
