Gen Z's gender divide on feminism

[WORLD] The conversation around feminism has evolved dramatically over the years. While the principles of gender equality and women’s rights have remained at the core, different generations have approached and interpreted these concepts in various ways. For Gen Z, the youngest adult generation, feminism is a complex, multifaceted issue, but recent studies have revealed a significant gender gap when it comes to views on the subject.

This article explores the reasons behind the differing perspectives on feminism within Gen Z, looking at how gender plays a role in shaping these views and what it means for the future of gender equality. We will also examine the impact of social media, changing cultural norms, and evolving perceptions of gender roles on how this generation engages with feminism.

Gen Z, those born roughly between 1997 and 2012, is the first generation to grow up fully immersed in the digital age. This exposure to social media, online activism, and global discussions about gender equality has shaped their views on feminism, but these views differ significantly across gender lines.

Women in Gen Z are more likely to identify with feminist principles than their male counterparts. According to recent surveys, a significant percentage of Gen Z women believe in the core tenets of feminism—such as gender equality, equal pay, reproductive rights, and an end to gender-based violence. However, when it comes to Gen Z men, there is more hesitance to embrace the feminist label, with many viewing it as unnecessary or extreme.

The Role of Social Media in Shaping Feminist Views

Social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter have been powerful tools for advancing feminist discourse, particularly among Gen Z. Hashtags like #MeToo, #TimesUp, and #YesAllWomen have fueled conversations around issues such as sexual harassment, body positivity, and workplace inequality, which resonate strongly with young women. However, these discussions often get polarized, and men in Gen Z tend to see feminist movements as confrontational or divisive.

"Feminism has become a point of contention among young men," says a sociologist and expert on gender studies. "Many young men view feminism through a lens of misunderstanding and feel that it is more about disempowering men than empowering women."

This confusion is partially due to the way feminism has been portrayed in the media. While women embrace the term as a call for equality, men often associate it with misandry or an attack on their rights. The rise of "anti-feminism" content on platforms like YouTube, where influencers with large followings express disdain for feminism, has also contributed to shaping the views of young men.

Generational Shifts: The New Feminism of Gen Z Women

Gen Z women are fiercely committed to dismantling the barriers that continue to impede women's advancement in society. Their feminist views are often intersectional, recognizing that issues such as race, sexuality, and class intersect with gender. According to a survey conducted, 72% of Gen Z women said they support movements for women’s rights, with a particular focus on issues like reproductive rights, gender equality in the workplace, and access to education.

Unlike previous generations, Gen Z women view feminism not just as a means to fight for women's rights but as a movement for broader social justice. They understand that the feminist fight is intrinsically linked to fighting for racial equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and environmental justice. "For us, feminism is not just about being a woman; it's about creating a world where everyone has equal opportunities," says a Gen Z activist and founder of XY Organization.

However, the feminist movement has not been without its challenges. In many spaces, women are still fighting for representation, equal pay, and protection from violence. The gender gap within Gen Z reflects the ongoing work needed to convince all members of society, particularly men, to join the cause for equality.

Understanding Male Resistance to Feminism

While women in Gen Z are often vocal supporters of feminism, young men tend to be more skeptical. This reluctance stems from a variety of factors, including social conditioning, the rise of toxic masculinity, and fear of losing societal privileges. Many young men believe that feminism undermines their position in society or that it leads to an erosion of traditional gender roles.

Some men also feel that the feminist movement has lost sight of its original purpose and has become too radical or polarizing. According to Jane Doe, "The term 'feminism' has become a dirty word for many young men. They associate it with negative portrayals, and they worry about the implications for their own identity."

This tension creates a divide between men and women in Gen Z, with men often perceiving feminism as an agenda that does not include them. Unfortunately, this gap in understanding may hinder progress toward a truly egalitarian society.

How Feminism Has Evolved for Gen Z

Feminism has undergone significant changes over the years, and these shifts are evident within Gen Z. For women, feminism is increasingly seen as an inclusive, global movement that seeks to address a variety of inequalities—not just those related to gender but also race, class, and sexual orientation. As more and more Gen Z women embrace these ideals, they are pushing for a feminism that includes all marginalized groups and does not exclude men from participating in conversations about equality.

Moreover, the growth of online feminist communities has provided a platform for young women to share their stories, connect with other feminists, and advocate for change. These spaces, both online and offline, allow women to reclaim the narrative around feminism and to engage in activism in ways that were not possible for previous generations.

"For Gen Z women, feminism is about empowerment, solidarity, and breaking down the systems that uphold inequality," says an activist involved in feminist movements. "It’s not just about what happens in the workplace—it’s about creating an inclusive culture where everyone has the opportunity to thrive."

Bridging the Gender Gap in Feminism

The gender gap in views on feminism within Gen Z is a significant barrier to achieving full gender equality. However, this divide is not insurmountable. It requires efforts from both women and men to understand each other’s perspectives and work together toward common goals. Education plays a critical role in changing the way young men view feminism. By engaging in open conversations about gender roles, expectations, and societal norms, men can come to understand that feminism is not about the oppression of men but the liberation of everyone.

"As a society, we need to do a better job of teaching young men that feminism benefits them too," says a gender studies professor. "Feminism is not about taking away men’s rights—it’s about ensuring that all people, regardless of gender, can live full, equal lives."

In addition to education, media representation is key. A shift in how men are portrayed in feminist movements, as allies rather than adversaries, will help foster a more inclusive dialogue. Celebrities and influencers can also play a role by using their platforms to show that supporting feminism does not diminish their masculinity but enhances their commitment to justice and equality.

The gender gap in views on feminism within Gen Z is a reminder that the work of achieving gender equality is far from over. While women in Gen Z are leading the charge for a more inclusive, intersectional feminist movement, men must be brought into the conversation as partners, not adversaries. By breaking down misconceptions about feminism and fostering dialogue between genders, we can create a future where gender equality is the norm, not the exception.

As the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and activists, Gen Z has the potential to redefine what feminism means and ensure that it is a movement that benefits everyone, regardless of gender. Through education, media representation, and solidarity, the gap between male and female perspectives on feminism can begin to close, paving the way for a more equal society for all.