Personally, I find the word “nazi” to be extremely offensive. This may be due to the fact that my grandmother was tortured by the Nazis when she was growing up in Poland. It may be because her sister was killed by them. Or, it may be because Nazis represent a group of heartless people who mercilessly murdered 11 million people. Whatever the reason is, the word “nazi” is not a welcome one. This is why I feel terribly offended when I’m called a “feminazi” due to my belief in gender equality.

In the early 1990s, Rush Limbaugh, a conservative political commentator, described feminists as “feminazis,” simply for advocating for gender equality rights. He said these “feminazis” were radical feminists who either encouraged widespread abortions or chose not to have children. Inaccurate, ignorant, and offensive, Limbaugh’s disgusting term still lives on in today’s society. Even worse, many Southern Lehigh students have embraced this word and use it in its commonplace vernacular. Multiple times, strong advocates such as myself have been labeled as “feminazis” because of innocently fighting for equal rights and treatment. It should be obvious, but our human anatomy should not determine our social class.

I am not afraid to speak my mind and stand up for what I believe in. However, I find it repulsive when I’m compared to a Nazi due to my civil beliefs. Every time I’ve been labeled a “feminazi,” it has been on Southern Lehigh ground. Whether in a political debate, heated conversation, or even most recently, by a teacher, the word has been spit out inconsiderately. I think it is simple to understand why I’m left distraught: not only is the word horribly mean, but it’s also inaccurate to what a true feminist is. Feminism, which many neglect to comprehend, supports the political, social, and economic equality of the sexes. Anyone who believes otherwise is not a feminist.

I refuse to be disrespected by someone who doesn’t understand my opinions. I am a confident advocate. If someone doesn’t agree with me, they can express their opinions in a mannered, humane way. However, it is inappropriate to use such an offensive term as a defense mechanism.

“Feminazi” is a cruel word for a plethora of reasons. To use the word to describe anyone is disrespectful and horrible. Not only should the word be addressed at Southern Lehigh, but it should also be removed from society. Wanting gender equality does not, under any circumstances, make someone comparable to a Nazi.