Stop Making Feminism a Popularity Contest

A Weekly Newsletter from Naija Feminists

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Hello friend,
Feminism is not a fan club. It is not about forming cliques, ruining reputations, or turning disagreements into personal attacks. It is a movement for gender justice, and that means different opinions will always exist. That is not a problem—it is necessary.
There is no single way to be a feminist, but some people try to act like gatekeepers, deciding who belongs and who does not. Disagreeing is fine, but bullying or shutting other women out because they see things differently, is not. Feminism is about fairness, not power plays.
Unlike misogyny, which protects men from accountability, feminism has no leaders who cannot be questioned. No one is above criticism, and no one should have a group of defenders ready to attack others on their behalf. That kind of thinking does not belong in a movement fighting for justice.
Feminism should encourage discussions, not silence people. It should push for change, not create exclusive groups that punish those who do not fit in. The goal is equality, and that cannot happen if feminists start acting like the very system they are trying to change.
At Naija Feminists Media, we create space for open, honest conversations about feminism. Our knowledge products and feminist community help women engage, learn, and support one another while staying true to the fight for justice.
With love and solidarity,The NFM Team
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Women Tell Us How They Personally Unlearned Purity Culture and Other Patriarchal NotionBy: Atinuke Falaiye
When I asked my mum why I should keep my virginity, she said so my husband would be the one to disvirgin me on my wedding night and love me more for “keeping myself for him” and then come and shower her with gifts for raising me right. What are gifts that I cannot buy for her myself?? It’s already problematic that I’d be exchanged for yams. Also, is the man keeping himself for me? I can go to his mum to buy her gifts for raising him right too. WHEN DO I WIN?
It was actually hard to unlearn. I’m the first daughter. The pressure has been there since I knew my right from left. Everything I did and every praise I got had a “your husband will enjoy” after it. Read more about women sharing how they unlearned purity culture and gender roles and how they are reclaiming their autonomy by letting go of the praises of  “hypothetical husbands.”
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In commemoration of National Girl #MeToo Day, we invite women to share their experiences of sexual harassment and support others facing similar challenges. By sharing your story or an inspiring message for Senator Natasha, you can help combat the silence surrounding gender injustice and empower those oppressed. Your voice matters—join us in creating a stronger, more supportive community. If you’d like to include a photo or artwork, feel free to do so! Fill out the form here: https://bit.ly/41LkYZG.
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LIBRARY HERE
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Become a part of our volunteer team and help make a difference! We are currently accepting applications for the accountant position. To apply, please send your application to mail@naijafeministsmedia.org.ng.Join the 2025 Vital Voices Global Fellowship to enhance leadership skills and collaborate with women changemakers. Gain valuable training and mentorship to drive systemic change. Apply now!Applications are now open for the 2025 WE Empower UN SDG Challenge, which recognises women entrepreneurs working towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Awardees get training and global networking opportunities. Apply today!
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We have a community for women where we collaborate, share ideas and have feminist conversations for women’s liberation. Only females are admitted.

 

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