Recently, I overheard a girl say, “My mom said I could participate in any sport except cheerleading. She just didn’t want me to be a girl who cheers for the boys.” As a feminist, I understood her perspective, but as a former cheerleader, I felt differently. This made me reflect on whether I would support my daughter—or even my son—in pursuing cheerleading. My answer was unmistakable: absolutely yes.
As both a feminist and a former cheerleader, I appreciate the complexity of this debate. In high school, I was often embarrassed by my cheerleading past. I urged my father to keep it a secret from my boyfriend (who is now my husband), avoided sharing it with my college friends, and discarded any memorabilia associated with it. Being a cheerleader felt at odds with my identity; I didn’t embody the stereotypical cheerleader persona, nor was I particularly enthusiastic about school spirit. The notion of cheering for male athletes felt disingenuous.
Despite my misgivings, I recognized that cheerleading provided an essential extracurricular activity that could enhance my college application, especially since my best friend was captain. And, truthfully, I enjoyed it. I learned that cheerleading is physically demanding and fosters teamwork, just like any other sport. As I delved deeper into women’s studies in college, I grappled with the question: Can someone be a cheerleader and still identify as a feminist?
The answer is a resounding yes. Cheerleading is indeed a sport, requiring physical effort and instilling values such as teamwork and dedication. Narrowing the definition of feminism to a specific image is itself a form of bias. Being feminine—whether that includes enjoying pink or manicures—doesn’t negate the desire for gender equality. Feminism can take many forms, and we should not impose limitations based on appearances.
We are fortunate to have the freedom to express ourselves through our choices in activities and appearance, but what truly matters is our core identity. To quote RuPaul, “We are born naked, and the rest is just drag.” It’s essential to lift each other up and support those around us, regardless of the labels society imposes.
While my past as a cheerleader once filled me with shame, I have since come to value the experience. Cheering for others, being part of a team, and yes, even liking the stylish uniforms has its merits.
One challenge I still face is the perception that cheerleaders exist purely to support male athletes. However, when you break down the arbitrary nature of sports, it becomes clear that all athletics can seem peculiar if you think about them. Explaining football to an alien might raise eyebrow-raising questions. At least cheerleading has coordinated routines and energetic performances.
There’s also an unspoken hierarchy among sports. For instance, field hockey players often dismiss cheerleading as a “lesser” sport. I’ve jokingly said I wouldn’t let my son play hockey because of the stereotypes surrounding the sport, but I recognize that each sport has its unique culture.
At a recent gathering, a well-meaning teacher expressed disappointment over a bright student choosing cheerleading. She seemed to view it as a misguided decision, and I found myself at a crossroads. Typically, I would downplay my own cheerleading background, but this time, I decided to embrace it. When I revealed my past, her demeanor shifted; she hadn’t intended to offend. It highlighted the disconnect between intellect and cheerleading, which I think is outdated.
I realize that we often pigeonhole individuals based on their interests. Smart people can be cheerleaders. Feminists can enjoy traditional feminine activities. It’s time to challenge these stereotypes. Whether you’re a cheerleader, a hockey player, or someone who bakes on the side, it’s crucial to embrace your multifaceted identity. It took me years to stop feeling ashamed of a part of my history that should be celebrated. Cheerleading played a significant role in shaping who I am today, and I’m grateful for it.
In conclusion, allowing our daughters the freedom to choose cheerleading—or any activity—encourages them to express themselves authentically. Embracing all aspects of our identities, without shame, is vital in a world that often tries to define us. It’s about celebrating the journey, the choices, and the empowerment that comes from being true to oneself.
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