9 Powerful Photos That Prove Anyone Can Be a Feminist

Though​ celebrities, activists, and world leaders continue to bring feminism to the mainstream, there are still many unfortunate misconceptions about the F-word, what it means, and who falls under that label. Feminism is simply about acknowledging historical oppression against women and believing that they should have the same social, political, and economic rights as men. And, as any proud feminist will tell you, you don't have to be a woman to be a feminist.​ In honor of International Women's Day, clothing retailer Wildfang has launched its "Wild Feminist" T-shirt and a photo gallery that aims to shatter stereotypes society has about feminism. Below, 10 men and women explain why they identify as feminists.

"I probably get judged for being a beauty queen, but being a feminist isn't about what job you do or how you look, it's about treating each other with respect and allowing each person to make their own choices without being held back or restricted." —Alicia

"People don't understand that sex work is a true model for how consent SHOULD work … I provide access to my time and body in exchange for money. I am a gatekeeper for this access, and my clients do not receive service if they do not respect me or my boundaries." —Elle

"I am a Republican man so some (false) stereotypes might suggest that I cannot also be a feminist, but I thoroughly support the idea of equal opportunity for all women. The term feminist has picked up 'radical' connotations in the past, but to me equality isn't radical." —Erik

"I think some may be surprised to hear that I identify as feminist depending on how they define it and whether or not they see my hijab as a symbol for feminism or oppression. Feminism to me is being able to remove all the checked boxes that 'define' a person based on cultural expectations and societal norms, and being able to define yourself based on your own values and ideologies. We live in a time of injustice, inequitable access, and hatred toward different identities. As a country that constantly talks about equal rights and justice, we've failed, and we must change that." —Fatmah

"Why do I consider myself a feminist? It's 2016. Do I really need to explain why I support equal rights?" —Goldini

"Calling myself a feminist helps me to redefine what it means to be a man, how to be an ally to women, people of color, LGBTQ and other marginalized groups of people." —Jeremy

"I am a feminist because I recognize that oppression of women has led to many of the downfalls of contemporary American culture. When hearing from women leading movements, we hear change must happen. When hearing from women of color, we hear even more radical change must occur. When listening to trans and queer women of color, we hear a call to action and call to social justice that involves every institution our country is built upon. There is no other way to heal from the past that does not include listening to those most oppressed." —Shannon

"Some people think young girls can't have opinions or be activists. I am a feminist because I believe gender does not matter, we should all be equals. We are all humans; living, using, and relying on this earth." —Leah

"When society hears 'feminist' they automatically see a woman, not a man. What people fail to realize is feminism is a movement and a belief that supports the equality of women. I can only hope that when my three daughters are out in the real world on their own, they are judged based on experience, education, their morals and beliefs, and not on their gender." —Ace

"Sadly, the Christian church, for almost its entire history, has too often been used to justify and bolster patriarchy, racism, and inequality. Because of this, the church has become synonymous with all these evils for many people, and sometimes they are surprised to hear the true spiritual life of compassion and equality articulated by a Christian Minister. But my read of the scriptures leads me to believe that Jesus himself was a feminist, so how can I not do my best to follow this example?" —Michael

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