Feminism and Christianity

I gave another talk about my life as a feminist Christian and once again the class I was with was a little surprised and had many questions. Actually, women did. I was reminded yet again, how freeing this is for young women. In youth groups and Bible studies, women are often told (sometimes outright or implied) to be quiet and understand that the Bible isn't sexist but women don't exactly have a great role. In reality, the Bible is insanely feminist with many examples of bad ass women (Hello...women were the first who told the Good News and man had nothing to do with Jesus' birth).

Somehow though, these messages of feminism always get lost in the midst of a youth group lead by men for young men. This is changing but not soon enough. Telling women to take a back seat in religion might lead young women to choosing feminism (if they've gone that direction) over their religious beliefs. Do you want the beliefs that tell you to shut up or that you're a bad ass? All this lack of recognition in Christianity (or any religion for that matter) does is tell women they're not enough. In feminism, there isn't always room for religion and that pushes the gap even further.

Telling young women going through this battle that they can have both is a relief. I remember when I first realized that God didn't want me to shut up next to the men. God (whatever that is or isn't to you) wants you to know that you are more than enough and your bad ass feminist activism started in the Bible. Remember Mary, who was judged for her promiscuousity? She knew she wasn't a slut and she declared her space (gasp, did I just call Mary a slut?). Remember the OTHER Mary who we do remember as a slut? Well, she was the first disciple who the angel directed to share the Good News (take that). There are plenty more examples, people.

So, to young women I say, "You don't have to choose. Just live well." That's my only rule. Live well.

Self Worth

Self worth is really tough. When I talk to teen girls, I always use the term "body image" but really it's self worth. For girls, self worth and our bodies is usually tied very closely together. Whether it's a television show pressuring girls to be "sexy", "desired" or "dumb" or a youth group telling them to be "quiet", "submissive" or "non-sexual", girls don't really make the terms. Everyone is more than eager to set the terms of self worth for girls but never to provide a space where they claim their own space, life, and self worth.

It's just not an option if you have a vulva (that's right, I used the correct term). Society and individuals really enjoy slut shaming and judging young women while sending them millions of mixed messages (doesn't sound crazy fun, right?).

I remember being incredibly sad as a teenager because I hated myself soooo sooo much. Talk about self worth! I had zip. I never felt "enough". So, instead of telling girls what they're doing wrong...try telling them "you are ENOUGH". It means more than you know. And try shutting up and listening to them. Young women are crazy bad ass and smart.