penelope waits

The real reason people say “I’m not a feminist, but” is fear. We live in a society that ostensibly values equality, but all women know that they risk being vilified if they step out of line. “I’m not a feminist, but” is code for: I am a feminist but I’m fearful of the terrible rage that is poured out towards women who seem angry or presumptuous or who have a little cellulite.

—Amy Jenkins: Will powerful women please stop saying ‘I’m not a feminist, but…’ (via relevanttomyinterests)