Why I Bother

People ask me all the time why I bother concerning myself with issues that don’t directly affect me.  They ask me all the time why I bother advocating for the oppressed, or how I find the energy to write and talk about social justice.   I hear all the time “Vanessa you’re only one person, …

Progress over Perfection

As a feminist I feel a lot of pressure to be a “good feminist” and not reject any of the ideals for fear of being labeled a bad one.  It’s unfortunate because feminists are sometimes each other’s worse critics.  When we disappoint or don’t adhere to the idea of what each other’s ideas of what …

Consent & Double Standards

The recent premiere of American Idol has proven to be even more tone deaf than I once thought.  Focusing on the controversial kiss Katy Perry stole from contestant Benjamin Glaze, the show received some heat…or should I say publicity…translating to media attention and ratings.  The show was the subject of some serious debate about the …

“Chivalry” in a Feminist World

I won’t lie when; Vanessa’s Voice contacted me and asked me to guest write, I was a little intimidated. She typically covers pretty substantial and important topics on her blog. While I...I basically wrap myself in sarcasm and complain about how hard adulting is… Nevertheless I thought it my duty to at least ATTEMPT to …

March For Our Lives

Saturday March 24, 2018 is a day for the history books. Early statistics are saying that the March For Our Lives is the largest attended rally in history. This is more inspiring than words can say. These students who experienced likely the worst trauma of their young lives have chose to stand up against it …

6 little words

“I just want to be happy”. This phrase is something I hear almost weekly.  We exclaim this growing desire to be happy but what does happiness even look like? For everyone it’s different.  It is a very personal thing but I believe many of us don’t even know what our own happiness would look like …

My Name is NOT “Hey Baby Girl”

Hey there baby girl.” Bewildered, I look around to see where there is a baby and where there is a girl.  Instinctively I know that this comment was certainly not directed at a baby, or a girl. It is dusk and I am walking alone downtown as I head towards One James Street for night …

Celebrating Women

On International Women’s Day I want to celebrate all the women in my life, along with the women and men who love and support them.  We are all connected and wouldn’t be where we are in 2018 without each other.  There will be ongoing work in gender equality but we should take a moment to …

Feminism – Challenging Stereotypes & Defining What it Means to Me

"But you're married" "But you don't participate in marches or rallies" "I didn't realize you hate men" "Ohh...you're one of those..." These are just a few of the many statements I have heard when I have identified as being a feminist. Feminism is a grossly misunderstood ideology and is often viewed in a negative light. …

3 Books Worth Reading in 2018

In light of the fact that this past Thursday was National Book Day, I thought I would share some books I’ve found to be worth reading. I have heard people say that they don’t share what they read because of the judgment people cast based on their book choices, but I refuse to judge a …