Comfortable Quote by Gloria Steinem
“It doesn't matter what word we use, if it has the same content, it will be treated in the same way. There are other words - there's "womanist," there's "mujerista," there's "women's liberationist" - all mean the same thing and they get the same ridicule. I think we just need to choose what word we feel comfortable with that says women are full human beings, and whatever that word is, it will get a lot of opposition. But it will also attract a lot of support. But this is a revolution, not a public relations movement.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Feminist Conference, 1975
Language labels for women's rights are interchangeable; the term chosen will face both opposition and support, reflecting a broader societal shift.
In simple terms: Words for women's rights are the same; any term faces backlash and support.
Key Takeaway
Choose a term that asserts equality despite resistance.
Themes
feminism
language
social change
Mood
inspirational
challenging
Type
activist
political
When to use this quote
- campaign slogans
- policy advocacy
- public debates
- media messaging
Key Concepts
identity politics
activism
Questions to Reflect On
- What term best captures inclusive feminism?
- How does language shape public perception?
A Different Perspective
Changing a word may not change underlying biases.
![“I think if we can't use the word feminist, if it's some kind of taboo or dirty word, or means you're ugly, or you're angry, or you're not dateable [laughs], then you've just reduced the language by a whole concept.” quote by Ani DiFranco](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/f96/ani-difranco-813_angry_i-think-if-we-can-t-use-the-word-feminis_2045488.jpg)
