Ask me about my feminist agenda
Truth time: I always wanted a daughter.
I wouldn’t trade my two boys for daughters, of course. But not having a girl was something that I had to grieve.
Being the RaDiCaL FeMiNiSt that I am, I knew I had a lot to offer a daughter. But it didn’t take me long to realise that David and I had an important job to do with these boys, too.
These precious babies would one day be tall, white men. And it was our job to make sure they didn’t grow up to be entitled assholes.
Toxic masculinity is a phrase that is VERY TRIGGERING to some men.
But looky here:
Toxic masculinity is NOT an understanding that all masculine traits are toxic. Far from it.
It’s the realisation that our culture pressures men and boys to behave in very specific ways. That they need to be tough and in control and confident and decisive at all times.
💔 That their normal emotions are wrong.
💔 That colours aren’t for them.
💔 That if they don’t fit the mould, they’re less valuable.
It’s these limiting beliefs that lead to toxic masculinity. (...Don’t get me started on how toxic masculinity is rooted firmly in misogyny and racism — that’s for another post).
We’re raising our boys to understand and recognise their emotions. To feel their feelings, do and wear things they like, and feel comfortable in their own skin. To take responsibility for their actions, to recognise their privilege, and to be respectful.
Yes, there is a living, breathing feminist agenda in our home. And it’s one of the best things about our family.
If this hit you in the feels, and you’re looking for a values-aligned speaker or bang-on copy with integrity with not a trace of BS, you’re looking for me. Hit me up.
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Martha Barnard-Rae is a Denmark WA-based SEO copywriter. She supports businesses in Denmark, Albany, the Great Southern and beyond with all the wordy things they need to stand out in the best possible way.
Her words live on the websites, blogs, videos, emails, and socials of businesses all over Australia. An accomplished speaker, Martha helps brands, business owners, schools, and Government Departments understand what they need to do to find their voices.
Martha holds an Honours Degree in English and a Master’s Degree in Education — communication truly lights her up. When she’s not crafting delicious words, you’ll find her walking two giant pooches, practicing her ukulele, or wrapped around a cup of tea, planning out her next Instagram reel.
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