Kelyn Struiksma  |  Guest Writer

Women nowadays seem neither to associate with being a feminist nor an anti-feminist, for the connotations that arise with having the label. If a woman identifies herself as a feminist, she is seen as a powerful, controlling, man-hating, independent woman. On the other hand, if a woman doesn’t identify with being a feminist, then she is seen as a passive enabler, permitting such gender inequality to happen to fellow females. Realistically, neither label is an accurate portrayal of ideals and frankly, the word “feminism” constantly brings up a debate that never quite seems to be resolved.

In September, actress Emma Watson, recently named U.N. Woman Goodwill Ambassador, gave a speech regarding gender equality at the launching event for “HeForShe,” a British feminism campaign. During her speech, Watson proposed the idea of how the issue of gender equality should not be distinguished by two conflicting perspectives, but rather should be understood as a spectrum.

The only way to truly face gender inequality is to move forward – both men and women – with mutual respect. Respect should and will be given if respect is received. It is my request that we, together, as a culture move away from letting stereotypes dominate and explain one’s views on this feminism spectrum. Similarly, women need to not disrespect others – both men and other women – in their attempts for equality recognition.

“We should stop defining each other by what we are not and start defining ourselves by who we are,” Watson said.

I could not agree more with what Watson is proposing in the attempts to understand and pursue gender equality. When I take into consider what Watson is suggesting, the Christian perspective that has been overlooked in the past is now becoming the framework for this argument.

It is necessary to be reminded that as human beings, we were created by God in his image, both male and female, according to Genesis 1:27. Men and women were created different. That’s not to say that one gender is better than the other, but that together, both genders mark the completion and fulfillment of creation.

It needs to be acceptable that women and men operate differently, but the same basic principles of civility and respect should be given to both, in order that we can work together and become the body of Christ. Women can’t expect to be treated exactly as men, because females are naturally different. However, women can expect to be treated with dignity and have the same opportunities to have a voice and place in society.

Proverbs 31 gives a great perspective on what it means to be a woman. It highlights how women are eager, hard workers who are equipped, skilled, smart, compassionate and capable of great accomplishment. Women are part of God’s creation and must be recognized.

We also need to acknowledge that we are all called to various vocations in life. Women, without a doubt, should have the opportunity and choice to work and thrive in any environment they should choose, but all too often, women who fit the stereotype of working at home and cooking meals every night are belittled. In the hope and protests for stereotypes of women to be broken, there seems to be an increasing disrespect for the other women who not only choose such a lifestyle, but feel called to such work. I am not saying that all women need to be homemakers and raising children. I am just suggesting that those who lean more toward the feminist side of spectrum need to acknowledge and show respect for the women who choose not to work professionally.

“Biblical feminism, as I understand it – and to be honest, feminism in general – is the movement and the conviction that all human beings need to be treated with dignity,” Dr. Kathryn Smith, APU professor of biblical studies, said in a recent interview with The Clause. “All human beings need to have a voice. All human beings need to have enfranchisement in our society. That means that a feminist will also advocate for people of color or people who are being oppressed, whatever their gender is.”

This issue of feminism needs to be addressed, as does society’s limitations on men, races, age groups and cultures. We need to respect one another, not diminish, neglect or ignore one another’s voices, ambitions or calling.

I am neither a feminist nor an anti-feminist, but rather, I fall in the middle of the spectrum. I am constantly trying to make sense of the best way to approach this sensitive and pervasive issue, especially as a woman about to enter the workforce. I believe that more than discussing and debating, we as Christians need to act and demand respect and opportunities for both men and women to succeed.