Every once in awhile, a celebrity will show courage and true leadership by speaking their mind. The latest of these is Emma Watson who last week addressed the UN General Assembly as a proponent of feminism:
"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."
Why do I believe this is extraordinary and worthy of note? First of all, her second and third sentences explain it carefully, succinctly. As a society, I fear that we have allowed extremists on both sides, but especially those on the far right, to twist the definition of feminism (much as they have twisted the very meaning of "patriotic" and "Christian") to suit a certain agenda that they perceive to be a moral code. In the middle of this steps a young actress who, refusing to further her career by twerking or indulging in a reality show, instead has the audacity to speak plainly that feminism is about gender equality and why it is important not only to her but to society as a whole.
In other words, she has guts.
And, lest people start falling apart over the hackneyed argument of "feminists claiming to be superior," note that is not her point of view. Her point of view is equality, not superiority. . .and in that she is a feminist in the purest sense of the word.
Beyond that, though, I am a huge fan of her point of view. As a leaders and cultivators of team, it is inconceivable that we can deliver the best results unless we foundationally believe in the equality of all. . .and honor that belief with our actions. It is impossible to get a strong, diverse viewpoint (which ultimately wins the day) if one's world view is that some on the team (be they of a different race, gender or sexual orientation) really are not as valued as others.
My ethos is based simply on two important learning experiences in my life. As a five year old in Sunday School, it was taught to us through verse and song that Jesus loved all the children of the world equally, regardless of their origins. They were all equal in the site of their creator.
That view was further strengthened with primary school teachings about what is great about our country: "With liberty and justice for all."
I believe it is not only possible, but wise, to celebrate our individual identities as long as we are committed equally, on all fronts, to assure that are all treated equally. It is not only the key to strong organizations, but to strong nations and civilizations.
I encourage you to watch the entirety of Emma Watson's address:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p-iFl4qhBsE
My book "Courageous Questions, Confident Leaders" is available for e-readers, PCs and tablets on Amazon Kindle.
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