Feminism Quote by Caitlin Moran
““I've seen this idea put forward a hundred times - that a proper feminist would do her own hoovering, Germaine Greer cleans her own lavvy, and Emily Wilding Davison threw herself under that horse, hands still pine-y fresh from Mr Muscle Oven Cleaner. On this basis alone, how many women have had to conclude, sighingly, as they hire a cleaner, that they can't, then, be a feminist? But, of course, the hiring of domestic help isn't a case of women oppressing other women, because WOMEN DID NOT INVENT DUST. THE STICKY RESIDUE THAT COLLECTS ON THE KETTLE DOES NOT COME OUT OF WOMEN'S VAGINAS. IT IS NOT OESTROGEN THAT COVERS THE DINNER PLATES IN TOMATO SAUCE, FISHFINGER CRUMBS AND BITS OF MASH. MY UTERUS DID NOT RUN UPSTAIRS AND THROW ALL OF THE KIDS' CLOTHES ON THE FLOOR AND PUT JAM ON THE BANISTER. AND IT IS NOT MY TITS THAT HAVE SKEWED THE GLOBAL ECONOMY TOWARDS DOMESTIC WORK FOR WOMEN.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Feminist’s Dilemma”, The Guardian, 2015
The passage satirically argues that domestic chores are not inherently gendered, challenging the notion that feminism must reject any reliance on hired help.
In simple terms: Domestic work isn’t a feminist issue; it’s about equality and choice.
Key Takeaway
Recognize chores as societal, not biological, responsibilities.
Themes
feminism
gender roles
domestic labor
satire
Mood
critical
humorous
Type
satirical
analytical
When to use this quote
- household budgeting
- hiring cleaners
- advocacy campaigns
- policy debates
- personal reflections
Key Concepts
social critique
gender equality
cultural norms
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you see hiring help as empowerment or privilege?
- How can society support equitable domestic labor?
A Different Perspective
It may oversimplify systemic inequalities that affect who can afford help.
