By: Taylor Morgan
Updated: Jan. 9, 2020
Originally Published: Jan. 9, 2020
While messages like “Boys will be boys” and “Girls rule” might seem positive on children’s apparel, we often question their true progressive nature. As parents, we have the ability to guide our sons to respect women, seek consent, and advocate for equal rights. Similarly, we can empower our daughters to take pride in their intelligence and to embrace their bodies without shame. It is crucial for us to raise children who understand the importance of gender equity, free from bias.
However, discussions around gender equality frequently come with caveats. A young feminist might hold discriminatory views towards the LGBTQIA+ community if we neglect to include all identities in our conversations about gender rights.
A study published in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine found that teenage boys exposed to progressive gender equality beliefs exhibited reduced violence towards women in dating scenarios. Their likelihood of harassment or abuse decreased by half. Interestingly, the study noted an exception: equitable attitudes did not correlate with reduced homophobic teasing. Elizabeth Miller, the lead author from the University of Pittsburgh, pointed out that one might expect progressive beliefs to diminish such teasing, but the data did not support this.
This lack of understanding isn’t surprising. Homophobia and transphobia are deeply ingrained in our culture, often portrayed in media as humor. Stereotypes about queer characters are common, leading to a culture where bullying and justifications for violence against LGBTQIA+ individuals become normalized. One researcher noted that teens might even perceive homophobic behavior as a social interaction among peers.
Is the young feminist being taught to love and stand up for individuals who identify as gay or transgender? Can boys embrace their identities beyond traditional norms? Do girls continue to rule if they are transgender?
For years, rumors have circulated about J.K. Rowling’s apparent biases against transgender individuals, particularly transgender women. Many of us, who once admired her work, hoped these were misunderstandings. However, a tweet that garnered attention revealed her support for a controversial figure who faced backlash for her views on biological sex. In her words, Rowling stated, “Dress however you please. Call yourself whatever you like. Sleep with any consenting adult who’ll have you. Live your best life in peace and security. But force women out of their jobs for stating that sex is real? #IStandWithMaya #ThisIsNotADrill.” This statement clearly positioned her as a trans-exclusionary radical feminist (TERF), contradicting the principles of feminism and gender equality.
Identifying as a feminist while excluding transgender women is hypocritical. Transgender women are women, and denying this is not only misguided but also profoundly disappointing. Biological sex, while often viewed as binary, is, in fact, a spectrum.
Rowling’s acceptance of same-sex relationships does little to promote genuine allyship if she fails to recognize that gender identity transcends biological definitions. True allyship necessitates an understanding that feminism is inclusive of all women.
It can be challenging to reevaluate those we admire when their views clash with our values. A parent who does not include discussions about gender nonconformity and the LGBTQIA+ community is not fostering a truly progressive environment. Politicians who back anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation fail to represent all constituents. Similarly, religious groups that reject LGBTQIA+ individuals, despite claims of love, send conflicting messages.
Ultimately, we must confront the uncomfortable truths about those we respect. Their views become barriers to the progress we seek, affecting the values we uphold.
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In summary, J.K. Rowling’s recent statements have disappointed many who hoped for a more inclusive stance. True feminism must embrace all women, and acknowledging the spectrum of gender identity is essential for genuine allyship.
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