A Brief and Incomplete Introductory Guide to Feminist Terms Compiled by Libby Robbins Bevis
Ableism
Discrimination in favour of able-bodied people. It is the discrimination of and social prejudice against people with disabilities based on the belief that typical abilities are superior. Ableism is rooted in the assumption that disabled people require ‘fixing’ and defines people by their disability.
Binary
The use of binary in discussions around gender and sexuality relates to the belief that there are only two genders. Often used to discuss gender stereotypes or characteristics typically seen as either male or female. Gender exists on a spectrum and we should move away from this limiting ‘binary’ idea. People who are ‘non-binary’ don’t identify as female/male or a woman/man. Many nonbinary people (but not all) prefer they/them pronouns to identify themselves.
Cis/Cisgender
Denoting or relating to a person whose sense of personal identity and gender corresponds with their birth sex. To be cisgender (commonly shortened to ‘cis’) means that you have body parts that are categorised as female or male and you identify with that gender from birth. It’s a term often used to highlight the privilege of those who are cisgender compared to trans or gender diverse individuals.
Cultural Appropriation
When a person or group of people take an element from a culture or race other than their own and use it outside of its original context, or, in a way that ignores its cultural significance. Elements appropriated often include (but aren’t limited to) traditional dress, dance, music, art, forms of celebration, and religion.
Feminism
The theory of political, economic and social equality of the sexes, and it’s manifested in organized activity on behalf of all women’s rights.
1st Wave (1830’s – early 1900’s)
Suffrage movement, 1st Wave Feminism focused on legal issues, primarily on gaining the right to vote.
2nd Wave (1960’s-1980’s)
The second wave of feminism focused on the workplace, sexuality, family and reproductive rights. During this time women were fighting not only for gender equality, but also civil rights and freedom of sexuality.
3rd Wave (1990’s – present)
The main issues of feminism today are similar to those of the 2nd wave, however feminism has gained popularity and is now more widely accepted in the mainstream. Though we are yet to achieve full gender equality, in terms of reproductive rights, equal pay, ending violence against women, and more.
6
