CULTURE SHAPING GENDER INEQUALITIES: A TRAVERSE THROUGH ADICHIE’S WE SHOULD ALL BE FEMINIST
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Abstract
Abstract
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, the mouthpiece of stern, relentless, unapologetic feminism narrates her own experiences to voice against gender inequalities and other stereotypes associated with feminism. Adichie earned her reputation not just on the African landscape but on a global parlance through her brilliant articulate works which includes novels, short stories and non- fiction. Through using strong female characters, she wanted to expose the patriarchal evils in the society. Adiche has confronted the harsh realities of gender inequalities in her childhood itself which reinforced feministic thoughts within her and encouraged her to embrace her true self making her unapologetic for her femininity. Her 2012 ted talk, as well as the book-length essay, later adapted with same title, We Should all be Feminists clearly states the need to root out the gender disparity between men and women that exists even today. Women and men are biologically different, so how is it possible to treat them equally, is the simplest condemnation against feminism, to which Adichie undoubtedly points on the true meaning of feminism and explains how empowerment of women actually is an achievement for society. She speaks out that feminism intends only to provide equal opportunities for both men and women and does not challenge the paths of men. In her view, not only women but men should also come out of the cage of gender roles in which they are groomed from the very beginning. She points out how changes happen around us. Developments occur on all walks of life except in the mentality of people. Thus, gender discrimination has become natural and normal, accepted and followed as it is. Adichie even encourages both men and women to equally work together for success in all walks of life. She says “My own definition of a feminist is a man or a woman who says, yes, there’s a problem with gender as it is today and we must fix it, we must do better. All of us, women and men, must do better.” (48- We Should All Be Feminist).