She Strengthens

The Power of Words: Time to Rethink Our Language

Words have the power to inspire, educate, and empower. But they can also hurt, belittle, and demean. Unfortunately, many phrases that were once considered harmless have become ingrained in our everyday language, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and biases. It’s time to take a closer look at the words we use and the impact they have on those around us.

The Dangers of Gatekeeping

One phrase that stands out is “real women…” This phrase is often used to dictate what makes someone a “real” woman, implying that there’s a certain set of characteristics or traits that define femininity. Newsflash: women come in all shapes, sizes, and personalities. Gatekeeping, or deciding who does or doesn’t belong to a particular group, is a harmful practice that needs to stop.

The Backhanded Compliment

How many times have you heard someone say, “You look tired”? On the surface, it might seem like a concern for someone’s well-being, but let’s be real – it’s often a veiled criticism of their appearance. This phrase is particularly damaging because it’s directed at women far more often than men. It’s time to stop commenting on people’s appearances and focus on more meaningful interactions.

Drama Queens and Social Exclusion

Then there’s the phrase, “I don’t like hanging out with other women because it’s too much drama.” Not only is this a sweeping generalization, but it’s also a sad excuse for avoiding meaningful relationships with women. By excluding half the population from potential friendships, we’re missing out on valuable connections and experiences.

Courage and Bravery Redefined

The phrase “grow a pair” is another offender. It’s a lazy way to tell someone to toughen up, implying that courage and bravery are exclusive to men. This phrase is not only sexist but also harmful to men who are socialized to suppress their emotions. It’s time to redefine what it means to be brave and courageous, and to recognize that these traits are not tied to gender.

The Insidious Compliment

Finally, there’s the phrase, “You’re not like most women.” At first glance, it might seem like a compliment, but it’s actually a backhanded way of saying that most women are somehow inferior. By using this phrase, we’re perpetuating negative stereotypes and reinforcing harmful gender biases.

A Call to Action

These phrases are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to sexist language. It’s time for us to take responsibility for the words we use and the impact they have on others. By being more intentional and thoughtful with our language, we can create a more inclusive and empowering environment for everyone. So, let’s make a conscious effort to choose our words wisely and promote positive change.