EARLIER IN SEPTEMBER, a brave woman & much-loved starlet came forth and helped redefine the real “F” word of the season—the word that couture designers had celebrated and individuals alike had whispered before—that being the once-dreaded word, feminism.
Newly-appointed after her graduation as an United Nations Goodwill Ambassador, critically acclaimed activist, model and actress, EMMA WATSON stepped onto the podium that afternoon and advocated for gender equality in the HeForShe campaign, a new initiative started by herself, that hopes to erase the ever-present disparities between the two sexes.
At the mere age of 24, Watson, with a wealth of experience, knowledge (having studied at Oxford University and Brown University while filming in the Harry Potter franchise) and determination to use her fame to educate others, captured the world’s attention when she empowered others to proudly call themselves ‘feminists’, a word once associated with “man haters” and often other incorrect synonyms. Her heartfelt, honest speech [above] urged others to move forward toward change.
“I decided I was a feminist and this seemed uncomplicated to me. But my recent research has shown me that feminism has become an unpopular word. Apparently I am among the ranks of women whose expressions are seen as too strong, too aggressive, isolating, anti-men and, unattractive.
Why is the word such an uncomfortable one? I am from Britain and think it is right that as a woman I am paid the same as my male counterparts. I think it is right that I should be able to make decisions about my own body. I think it is right that women be involved on my behalf in the policies and decision-making of my country. I think it is right that socially I am afforded the same respect as men. But sadly I can say that there is no one country in the world where all women can expect to receive these rights.” —Emma Watson at the United Nations HQ, September 21st 2014
Continuing her crusade to support women around the world, Watson graced ELLE UK’s first feminism issue this December. Wearing leading female designers throughout the photoshoot, the theme was very much apparent in the clean, modest yet beautifully soft, Stella McCartney, Céline and Chloé attire put together by ELLE’s Fashion Director, Anne-Marie Curtis.
Produced by an entirely female team at the photo shoot location in London, photographer Kerry Callahan, make up artist Dotti and interviewer Editor-in-Chief, Lorraine Candy, waved the feminist flag high, showing that when women come together, great things can happen. —Anita
