There’s almost no movement advocating for you that isn’t incredibly toxic, exploitative, and misogynistic, and everyone seems to be trying to sell you a course, coin, work out, or protein powder while screaming about how hard life is going to be for you if you don’t.
The ugly side of capitalism has reared its head and the first chomping bite is coming out of you. You need to have a six pack and you need to be gentle.
You need to protect women but you need to understand they don’t need you. You need to lose your virginity but you also need to be terrified of getting a girl pregnant or you’re the worst person ever. I know you must feel like we hate you.
I know reading ‘men are trash’ stuff must be horrible when you’re just trying to be a good guy and get on in life. So here’s what my advice is, as a young woman who has successfully fought through school, college, and work, and grown up around young men facing the same issues as you.
First and foremost, it’s important to understand that feminism is not about hating men. It’s about advocating for gender equality and dismantling the patriarchal structures that harm both men and women. So, my sincere advice to straight young men is to educate yourselves about feminism and understand that it’s not a threat to your existence, but rather a movement that can benefit everyone.
Secondly, it’s crucial to reject toxic masculinity and the harmful stereotypes that society imposes on men. You don’t have to conform to the narrow definition of what it means to be a man. Embrace your emotions, vulnerability, and sensitivity. These are not weaknesses, but strengths that can help you build genuine and meaningful relationships with others.
Additionally, don’t feel pressured to live up to unrealistic standards of masculinity perpetuated by the media and society. You don’t have to have a perfect body, a high-paying job, or a long list of sexual conquests to be worthy of respect. Your worth is inherent, regardless of these external factors.
Furthermore, it’s important to listen to and respect women. Understand that they have their own agency and autonomy, and they don’t need to be protected or saved by you. Treat women as equals, listen to their experiences, and amplify their voices. By being a supportive ally to women, you can help create a more inclusive and equitable society for everyone.
In conclusion, my advice to straight young men as a hardcore feminist is to embrace feminism, reject toxic masculinity, and respect women. By doing so, you can navigate the complexities of modern masculinity with grace and integrity. Remember, feminism is not your enemy – it’s your ally in the fight for equality and justice.