by Rishma Johal
If you haven’t already heard of Justin Trudeau, it’s about time! Canada’s Prime Minister will make you fall in love with him in a few seconds of this video and it’s not just because he’s a handsome fellow.
Trudeau is what the world currently needs more of because he’s unafraid to discuss many important issues such as women’s rights, first nation’s issues, and the importance of encouraging cultural harmony. He may very well be the most popular Prime Minister since his father, Pierre Trudeau (1968-1979.)
In just a few months into his term, Trudeau made a global mark by pushing conversations and legislation many world leaders are afraid of enacting. Following suit, his remarks at the recent World Economic Forum in Davos is nothing less than amazing.
Yes, he discussed women’s issues at the forum—which is committed to improving the state of the world. He went there.
“We shouldn’t be afraid of the word ‘feminist.’ Men and women should use it to describe themselves anytime they want.”
Why we Shouldn’t be Afraid of the Word “Feminism”
We can’t thank Trudeau enough for saying we shouldn’t be afraid of the word “feminist,” and even more so, men and women should use it to describe themselves anytime they want. (We guess Aziz Ansari just found a new male feminist BFF!)
[Read Related: Aziz Ansari’s ‘Master Of None’ is a Smart, Real and Hilarious Triumph]
He then went on to explain how men have to be an important part of this conversation by giving the example of his own family.
He said his wife, Sophie, explained:
“It’s great they’re raising their daughter as an independent woman but it is equally important for them to teach their sons how to treat women.”
Many times, we find that men are confused by the term “feminism” and some of us are tired of explaining it again and again, but finally, we have a man in global power doing the explaining for us.
Feminism Matters—on a Larger Scale
One of the larger issues with discussions about gender equality is that it circulates among women when men are not often included.
Women are often told to change their clothes, behavior, or personality to resolve many issues they face because of gender discrimination. From self-defense classes to the start-up world, the army or at the office, women generally bear the brunt of dealing with sexism and inequality. However, Trudeau makes the significant point that men have to be involved in these conversations in order for all of us to propel together as one people.
Thank you, Prime Minister Trudeau for eloquently explaining feminism. We owe you a big one!
Rishma Johal graduated from Simon Fraser University with an M.A. in Gender, Sexuality and Women’s Studies, and B.A. in History. Rishma is an anti-racist feminist as well as an advocate for intersectionality and social justice. Her research is aimed at enacting social change as is her photography and video work. Rishma has also hosted television programs, radio shows, live events, and presented at numerous conferences. She loves dancing, has a knack for acting and is a complete Bollywood fanatic!
