Why Would I Ever be a Feminist?

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Oh, you hate men? Why would you be a feminist? All guys aren't like that..That's so unfair.

Because when I was 12 years old I was sent home from school because my tank tops straps were "too thin", but the boy who sat behind me could wear a “Cool story babe, go make me a sandwich” and not be looked at twice.

Or maybe because when I was only 14 I told a boy no and I was called a tease for the remainder of middle school.

Oh wait, maybe because when I was at the mall and I was approached by a guy I feel the need to say “sorry, I have a boyfriend” instead of “no” because guys have more respect for other men than they do for me.

Maybe because when I want to go for a walk at night, I decide it’d be safer to wait until morning.

Because society screams “don’t get raped” instead of “don’t rape”

Because when I wear my favorite crop top I’m “asking for it”

Because no means no

Because being hot is the most important thing I can do

Because I received pepper spray as a graduation gift because “I’ll need it for college”

Because what I’m wearing says more about my consent than my actual mouth does

Because the wage gap exists

Because I feel the need to say “I’m not actually feminist but….”

But you’re right…. Why would I ever be a feminist?

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