The idea of modern progress looks down upon the term ‘tribe.’ Yet, I call you one, because if progress is synonymous with patriarchy, I want no part of it. I call you a tribe because you are fiercely loyal, and you fight to preserve your identity in a world rapidly succumbing to misogynistic socialization.
When I first entered the folds of feminism, as a way to draw strength from you, as a way to heal, I discovered how all of you were unique in your own way. But the common struggle for women’s rights united you on multiple fronts, and I knew that here, I would find the support and solidarity I needed to take a stand.
You made space for me in your community and explained how, contrary to popular belief, feminism is not advocacy of having power ‘over’ but having the power ‘to.’ This resonates. Deeply. I learned to love pink as well as blue and having the right to do so instead of being told to explain myself to people who felt they were entitled to determine my choices for me.
You gave me the clarity to think about how to help girls who are suffering instead of wallowing in self-pity. Suffering itself took on a new meaning: a way to make me stronger than I had ever thought possible. I do not say this to belittle my own or other people’s pain. I say this about what comes after the pain.
You taught me the art of introspection. For the first time in my life, I decided to look within, and it dawned on me that a woman’s self-worth and strength are intrinsic. They are not determined by external factors, because I saw how you had the courage and power to pick yourself up after your own experiences of abuse and trauma, and it made me realize that if your self-worth and strength were NOT intrinsic, then the pain you went through at the hands of this violent world would have destroyed you. You would never have been able to take a stand so intensely that today, me and several others like me who are trying to find their bearings look up to you for inspiration.
For all that you have done and for all that you will do, thank you.
I know this letter is short. But it is filled with gratitude. And that’s a good place to start.
