Am I a Gender Stereotype?

Am I a Gender Stereotype? 

An Opinion Piece by Ruby Dowling

We all grow up around stereotypes, whether it’s the toys we are given to play with or the morals we are taught to follow, we are surrounded by them. But many of us are lucky enough to grow up in an environment where we are told that we don’t have to abide by these stereotypes. I remember being 9 and suddenly hating the colour pink. My friends and I had been hit with a sudden desire to rebel in our own little way. I told myself that pink was too “girly” and distanced myself from everything stereotypically feminine.

I spent so long trying to run away from stereotypes because I didn’t want to be one. As we all know we are told from a young age what our respective gender is supposed to enjoy and meant to behave like. But then as we get older we start to be influenced by a different voice, a voice that tells us that you don’t have to uphold the stereotypes that are forced upon us, and of course this is true. When you live in a progressive place and are surrounded by so many open-minded people, you may, like me, feel almost guilty if you do fall under some of the stereotypes.

I don’t like sport, sciences aren’t my strongest subjects, and I don’t see myself as a leader. Does this mean I am upholding a stereotype? If you wear make-up and shave your legs does that make you any less of a feminist? No. Because feminism isn’t about how you look, it’s about believing in the equality of all genders. So why do I feel guilty for being able to relate to some of these stereotypes about women? Why do I feel weak because I enjoy musical theatre and not football? Maybe some of the things I like are traditionally “feminine” and maybe some of them aren’t, but in the end, who really cares? Sometimes I wonder, if we didn’t grow up around gender binaries, would I still like the things I like? Of course the patriarchy and media have an impact on our hobbies, interests etc. but if it weren’t for the stereotypes would I be a completely different person? I know that what society tells us is socially acceptable unfortunately does often shape who we become.

I am a girl and I do like to paint my nails

I am a girl and I can’t cook to save myself.

I am a girl and I do hate sport.

I am a girl and I am unorganised.

I am a girl and I am allowed to enjoy what I want without having to worry about whether I am a stereotype.