The Importance Of Domestic Feminism

Throughout my life I have had a keen sense for focusing in on the minute details that others seem to miss. This as well as a blessing, is oftentimes a curse. As a white woman growing up in the United States of America, I realize my immense privilege amongst most of my counterparts. However, I cannot possibly turn my head to the vast inequalities women still face today. Women in most developing countries are widely considered subordinate to men, and face thousands of trials and tribulations when it comes to obtaining voting rights, marriage rights, a proper education, and rights against sexual and domestic abuse. As a strong-willed and independent female, I whole-heartedly support the mass movements calling for women to be more respected on

Feminism, as defined in Webster’s Dictionary, is the belief that men and women should have equal rights and opportunities. This also includes organized activity in support of women’s rights and interests. Domestic feminism, however, is like a scope—it focuses solely in on domesticity of women in regards to what is considered the proper job and lifestyle that a woman should preoccupy. Personally, this common belief (resulting from the breadwinner system) had affected my life and will continue to as I make my way into the workforce and attempt to establish relationships. As a child, I was always taught simple gender roles that many times I had no idea I was being exposed to—women cook and clean, play house, and take care of their husbands. Girls are given the image at a young age of

Even in high school, I was often discouraged from many other career choices because they possessed too many “masculine” characteristics. Presently, I am still encouraged to take into consideration more dainty careers. However, I know it would be more likely if I was a male to be encouraged to attempt these dangerous and even high-stress level jobs. I am told I belong in a kitchen. I am told I will not make a good wife because I cannot cook. I am told women keep the house and men work and women aren’t to make risky choices. And too often because of this, I wonder why my abilities are still questioned even though I as well as many other women are strong and