That’s Not Feminism. That’s Control.

Jun 20

Yep. I said what I said.

Somewhere along the way, parts of the internet decided that feminism means covering up, toning down, and sitting pretty in a box labeled “respectable.” And nah, we’re not doing that. We didn’t come this far just to come this far. We aren’t just trading in one set of rules for another.

The latest example? Sabrina Carpenter’s album cover. Baby girl is out here in full goddess mode: body on soft, pose on power, giving us submissive in her power, strong, and fun all at the same damn time. And yet, folks have the nerve to say she was “doing it for the male gaze” and “setting women back.”

Come again?

Here’s the thing: using feminism to shame women for how they show up in their bodies is not the serve you think it is. In fact, it’s giving... right-wing energy in a feminist costume. Same control, different language. If a woman showing her body makes you uncomfortable, I gently suggest that you ask yourself why. Who told you that liberation only counts when it looks the way you want it to?

Because if your version of feminism only supports women who dress modestly, speak softly, or conform to your idea of “empowered,” then what you’re practicing isn’t feminism; it’s patriarchy with a fresh coat of paint.

And I get it, We’re living in scary-ass times. Rights are being stripped, autonomy is under attack, and the world feels loud and unsafe. But here’s what we’re not about to do: shrink ourselves just because the world wants us small. Historically, in moments of chaos, women are told to be quiet. Be careful. Be palatable. Be less.

No, ma’am.

Now is not the time to dim. Now is the time to hit the gym, train your body to protect your peace, and show up as your fullest, most badass self. It’s time to do that shit. Wear the crop top. Post the thirst trap. Be soft and sensual and still radical.

Self-expression is not a threat to feminism. It is feminism.

So let’s stop acting like there’s only one way to be a woman. Let’s stop slapping shame labels on women who love their bodies and choose to show them. Let’s stop projecting our own fears onto people who refuse to hide. Because the truth is, when a woman stands in her power, it shakes the table.

And baby, we are here to shake it.

Feminism is about choice. About autonomy. About freedom. So whether you’re buttoned-up or booty-out, sipping tea or screaming into a mic, you’re allowed to take up space. (READ IT AGAIN.)

Say it with me: my body, my joy, my damn business.