“Feminist” is a word that has been used for years to describe someone who supports women and men having equal rights. The word is meant to propel women forward and join them together in the fight for equality.

Women label themselves as a “feminist” to make it clear that they want every right that men do. Men label themselves as “feminist” to show that even though they currently have more rights than women, they do not believe it is right. Unfortunately, it is 2014, and the fact that wanting equal rights isn’t a standard is upsetting.

Anyone who thinks men and women should not have equality in the modern world should be the group with a label: “sexist,” “bigot,” or “just plain ignorant.” The existence of the word “feminist” implies that the idea of gender equality is a concept that is not a natural part of our modern society, which subconsciously makes the gender equality struggle a more divisive issue.

The word “feminist” has also been abused by women’s rights extremists. The word has become more and more associated with women wanting more rights than men, although the correct term is “misandrist.” This view has ostracized women with moderate views on women’s issues. Some moderate feminists fear being grouped in with extremists and thus avoid using the term.

The dislike of the word has stemmed online movements such as “Women Against Feminism,” women voicing their opinion on topics like feminist extremists disrespecting other women and hating on the male population. It is an issue that has become controversial among women.

The extreme usage has also ostracized men from being labeled as feminists. Because extremists have a tendency to man-hate, it is hard for a man to label themselves as a “feminist” without criticism.

Even though the definition of the word feminism is “the advocacy of women’s rights on the grounds of political, social, and economic equality to men,” and does not state than a man cannot be labeled as a “feminist,” the feminine connotation of the word itself makes it difficult for men to claim the term.

The word “feminist” no longer has the meaning it once did. Keeping it in our vocabulary only hinders gender equality. It should be eliminated from our society, and hopefully no other word will have to represent equality.