By Adam Kelly | Echo
Emma Watson.
I bet you are picturing her as Hermione Granger in "Harry Potter" or Sam in "The Perks of Being a Wallflower." That's not a bad thing. My mind conjures plenty of images from both movies. But she is doing something infinitely more important now that needs to be recognized.
She represents the United Nations as a Women's Goodwill Ambassador to improve the quality of life and treatment of women across the globe.
Watson delivered a speech earlier this week at the U.N. headquarters in New York that continued to push movement for feminism and the equal treatment of women.
I know what you are thinking. Feminism is a horrible word; I would never want to be called a feminist or say I am for feminism. I thought this as well. I believe in equal rights and treatment for women, but I avoided the word feminism and the topic in general like a man avoids shopping.
Let's look at the definition for a second.Culture defines it as the theory of hating men, of trying to take control for equality, but doing so at many extreme lengths.es.
Feminism is not a negative word. It doesn't blame or focus on previous negative experiences. It describes gender equality and helps the movement garner attention until it can finally be considered resolved.
Watson declared the thought that feminism is directly related to "man-hating" needs to stop.
It is not about "man-hating," it is about gender equality in all aspects of life.
Why is it that 95 years after women being allowing to vote are women still being treated unfairly? Why is it so difficult to make gender equality a reality?
Watson nailed the topic when she delivered her speech. She confronted controlling, overbearing men who force women into submission, who push back any efforts that have been made and how men can impact the change in gender equality that is needed. The change cannot happen if the men are not equally a part of the solution.
The movement He For She is trending on Twitter. The website heforshe.org is keeping track of how many men commit to the movement. The number is over 141,00 and counting for men promising to "A Solidarity Movement for Gender Equality."
The statement on heforshe.org that men all over the world are agreeing to and declaring is this: Gender equality is not only a women's issue; it is a human rights issue that requires my participation. I commit to take action against all forms of violence and discrimination faced by women and girls.
I dedicate myself to contributing to the cause. I have chosen to be a part of the change and movement for gender equality. I will fight for women's rights and protect them in dangerous situations. Will you stand up for your sister, mother, daughter, friend or co-worker? Will you be part of the change? Emma Watson ended her U.N. speech with the words-"If not me, who? If not now, when?"
