Feminism as an ideology, and social and political movement, is something that is rooted deeply in my psyche and that of millions of women worldwide. And that’s no surprise as the narratives around the political, economic, and cultural equality of women took root way back in the 19th century. At that time, women’s right to vote took centre stage and since then, the interpretations of the feminist movement and the causes it championed have evolved with the times.

Broadly speaking, feminism has come to stand for gender equality across various spheres and different aspects of life. While I am all for women supporting women, and am part of various women only communities, I feel that the time has come to relook at feminism as we know it. You could call this my personal development curve or a fresh look at what the world needs today.

Several events in the past few weeks have led me to change my attitude because of looking within and introspecting on the concept of women supporting women in closed communities. While this has come to be regarded as one of the pillars of feminist movements, personally I feel it is only a matter of time before exclusive communities are seen as discriminatory. Women fought exclusively male organisations in the 20th century, so why should men tolerate exclusively female organisations in the 21st century for much longer? Already there are rumblings about this in various parts of the world. While it may not have percolated down to India yet, it will probably happen sooner than later.

What the world needs on a priority basis is an integrated environment where men and women are balanced on an equal platform. We need to view diversity and inclusion as not just taking care of one community but as an integration of communities. What feminism is looking for is a new breed of men who accept that men and women are equal to the last cell, the last atom and that’s the last word. Men who have discovered the feminine in themselves, accepted and reflected it and are ready to co-create new family models, new models of collaboration based on their own introspection.

This new breed of man is not afraid to show his emotional side, share his fears, admit to his feelings or bond at an emotional level the way women do.  He is open to viewing women as equals in every which way. When I look at my corporate circle, I am unable to spot men or a man like that. In my agricultural space however (The space of permaculture, regenerative agriculture, not that of industrial agriculture), I have come across men who are more open to revealing their true selves’ flaws and all. A deeper appreciation of nature seems to come with a deeper appreciation of diversity.

So how do we drum up more men like this? How do we go about redefining feminism with help from men? One of the thoughts is that we need more mixed forums and healing circles with open conversations between men and women. Communities of men and women need to be created where men view women without using the lens of gender and stereotype and vice versa. While this may not be the ideal solution for an equal society and world, it may well be the beginning. What do you think?

I would love to hear the voices of men in my network on this topic. Do you all agree that men have a role to play in redefining feminism? And if so, what are some of the ideas that you have in this regard. Do share your thoughts and let’s have a lively discussion.