It’s 2018, and it will still take over 100 years for women to become equal to men. The world is full of strong, amazing women who deserve the chance to earn the same pay without feeling like they need to fit stereotypical gender roles. With things becoming so cray the last few months here are some ways you can give a big middle finger to the system.
Oh, and guys, no one's trying to take anything away from you. We just need your help to bring about better futures for the badass females in your life.
1. Support women-owned businesses
Make your money count, support businesses that line up with your ideals and speak for you. That extra dollar at a local shop will go far further than a chain store who skirts their taxes or donated to get our current POTUS in power.
The Bay Area has a ton of businesses owned by women who keep up a hustle to support themselves and their community. A single block on San Pablo Ave in Berkeley holds - not one - but ten businesses including Good Vibrations sex shop and DoTheBay Certified Lit NEEKO, both of which are committed to empowering women.
2. Support Female-Fronted BANDS
There are plenty of badass bands with female leads that deserve recognition. Show your support by attending a show and rocking tf out with an energized crowd. Lucky for us the Bay Area boasts a massive music scene, both local and touring.
And hey, March is Women's History Month! Be sure to check out all the events going on featuring and/or thrown by women.
3. Take Part In Male-Dominated Activities
Hockey, football, and skateboarding continue to be thought of as unbecoming or odd for women to take part in. Prove 'em wrong! Join a sports team or take a self defense class - be able to kick ass in more than one way. Amazing organizations such as Skate Like A Girl teach girls "confidence, leadership, and social justice...through skateboarding". Unfortunately it's temporarily on pause while they work out some running issues, which only shows we can't have nice things unless we take part of and support these types of groups.
Guy, encourage the women in your life to seek out these activities or donate your time to help these organizations stay open.
4. EDUCATE YOURSELF
No one respects or believes a person spewing out opinions as facts. Get educated. Read articles, go to the library, join groups and events that are aimed to bring guidance and knowledge to those seeking it. Don't be a sheep who spews out every Facebook shared image they see.
5. Recognize and Encourage Male Allies
Guys, we see you. Don't think females are only want to huddle in their safety groups and use you for your bods. Most of you are open to hearing opposing viewpoints and learning about what needs to be done in this fight. Girls, approach them as a friend rather than an enemy. Always have facts. Leave the “he said, she said” in the kindergarten yard.
6. Call Out Misogynistic Behavior
See a dude being overly touchy or using words like “ladies” in a demeaning way? Say something. It’s our responsibility to engage against inappropriate words and behaviors when they happen. Doesn't matter if it's at the coffee shop or in your home, even a “that’s not cool” is better than pretending you aren’t witnessing it.
7. VOTE
The presidential election isn’t all that matters. Pay attention to the off-presidential election years. You can only complain so much if you couldn't be bothered to participate. Note: This does not mean only vote for women in office. There are male candidates (Bernie! Bernie!) who are looking out for the rights of everyone and looking to bring about a better world for all.
8. Engage With NON-MILLENNIALS
The world doesn't revolve around us. Previous and future generations are just as important in helping smash the patriarchy. Learn from elders, find out how they took action in the past and listen to what they've had to deal with in their lives. The younger generation will soon be taking over, start the change with them. Introduce them to the ideas and women who have made a difference in your community.
9. Don't Get Discouraged
Times are tough. They will continue to get tough. Giving up and staying silent is the most empowering thing to those of power who don’t speak for you. Stand strong. If you need some support be sure to reach out to some friends or take a break from the madness and be around good people at a show or with a game of pool. Friends are everywhere.
10. Be Fabulous
Whatever your gender or orientation, be the most amazing you can be. Wear that lipstick you love, cover yourself in glitter, and dance when you want to. There’s no better way to fight the patriarchy than being your goddamn beautiful self.
Written by Brigitte Hoch in collaboration with some badass men and women
All of this go entirely over your head? Maybe The Fuckboy's Guide to SF is more on your level.
