A feminist. To many this word can be a dirty “f-word.” Many think this is a person is over-bearing, self-righteous and pushy.

This version of a feminist comes with many negative thoughts of extremists and radicals.

These individuals have always been foreign in my eyes, I have never understood what they stood for and where they were trying to get.

But, earlier this week in one of my classes we discussed the different waves of feminism over the last 100 years and the different levels of feminism now.

The different eras have brought about voting rights, property rights, legal equality, reproduction rights, and have help our society make positive steps towards work place equality and violence awareness.

The strides forward have been brought into fruition by many different people.

However, this word can describe a variety of people including, men and women alike, and I have never considered myself one until this week.

I can honestly say I fall into the modern era of feminism.

And despite my previous thoughts, I realized I have been a feminist all along.

Before many turn up their noses toward my statement I feel I should explain.

I know people who have said that anyone who is a feminist feels women should have more rights than men.

This is not true.

In my past understanding, I thought feminism was the idea that women should be treated the same or better than men, no matter the situation.

This definition did not quite sit right with me for obvious reasons.

Individuals differ, situations differ and for this reason there should never be an ultimatum.

I am not under the impression that people should be rewarded with a raise or a position simply because of a gender, race or religion, but I do believe that every person should be considered on their own work, experience and skill.

However, noting the differences between individuals is important. To ignore the variations of a human takes away an entire viewpoint on society.

I personally know there are many things that are different between men and women.

Whether this is biological or social, it is true. And honestly, I am OK with that.

I am fine that my boyfriend is willing to help me move a desk down three flights of stairs.

He is stronger than I ever thought of being; however, it is important for both of us to understand I can change a light bulb, pay a tab, and shovel the driveway, just as he can wash the dishes, fold the laundry and cook a dinner.

But simply because there are differences, does not mean it should become the rule.

To me, this is what feminism is about, acknowledging the physical differences between men and women, but realizing that simply because someone is a man or woman should not be a handicap for everyday tasks or within society in general.

Kayleigh Zyskowski is a senior journalism major. She can be reached at 581-7942 or at [email protected].