Ladylike. Something we’re often told to be. With double standards everywhere. But you know what, it is really hard to be ladylike when you are surrounded by chauvinistic pigs and idiots.
From a young age the difference in behaviour towards males and females is apparent. The way people approach their behaviour and the excuses given for being in-proper. "boys will be boys", no no boys need to be taught some manners and how to be a decent human being.
The feminist movement is something I love. Women should be equal - but we aren’t. Pay might now be more equal that it was once before, but in this world we are still looked at as the weaker sex and probably always will be. We aren't seen as being able to be as successful or accomplish as much as a male.
We deal with looks from men, inappropriate comments and higher expectations, so often that they aren’t usually worth bringing to other people’s attention. Often being harassed or discriminated against... but who really wants to bring all of that up. It gets us nowhere.
In a work place; wearing a suit - gets us called comments like “power suit” or “uptight”, and wearing clothes that flatter our figure and fit properly are seen as us using our bodies to get what we want. It is like we can never win. No matter what our appearance, we are always judged as an object.
I have worked in multiple places surrounded by males and although in some positions have been equal to them or above, members of the public would presume the male was above and move directly to them and when diverted to myself would seem shocked, that I, a woman, was the person they need to deal with. People would often ask questions and feel the need to double check with someone else... I am qualified, it is your misogyny that is causing you problems.
I have been asked at job interviews questions that really are not relevant:
"Do you want to discuss the position with your partner?" No, not really. I can make my own decisions thank you very much.
"Do you see yourself having a family in the near future?" And how exactly does that make me any less qualified to have the job. I can guarantee that a male interviewing for the same position would not be asked that question. My body, my business.
No matter what my position, I have always been referred to as “girl”, you don’t see men getting called “boy on reception”, I am 24. I am not a child.
When people call me "young lady" it boils my blood. What does young have to do with anything? You don't see people referring to the older generate as "old lady", no, because that is offensive.
I love being a woman. But sometimes, the stares from males, inappropriate comments and cat calling can get too much. I have found myself physically shaking through the inappropriateness and intimidation of males. That should not happen.
So what do I think it means to be a woman.
I think it is bullshit. I think it is hard. But, women... as long as we keep pushing for fair treatment and against misogynists' then maybe one day...
We wont have to fear walking the streets alone;
We wont be told we were sexually assaulted because of the way we look;
When we say no, men will listen;
We will be EQUAL.
Major rant on my part. Just sick of being expected to act a certain way and put up with certain shit. You're welcome.
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