I support anything that broadens the message of gender equality and tempers the stigma of the feminist label. We run into trouble, though, when we celebrate celebrity feminism while avoiding the actual work of feminism.

In this quote, Roxane Gay, a prominent American writer and feminist, expresses her support for any initiative that promotes gender equality and challenges the negative stigma associated with the feminist label. Gay acknowledges that the movement for gender equality should be about broadening awareness and promoting societal change, not just about adopting a label or gaining attention. She points out that while it is important to normalize and embrace feminism, there is a deeper, more substantive work that must be done beyond the superficial aspects.

Gay’s critique turns to the trend of celebrity feminism, where famous figures publicly identify as feminists, but their actions may not always align with the core goals of the movement. She highlights a potential disconnect between celebrity activism and the actual work of feminism. In her view, the real work of feminism involves structural changes, challenging patriarchal systems, and addressing issues like pay equality, reproductive rights, and gender-based violence, rather than simply promoting a brand of feminism that is more about visibility than substance.

By referencing the celebration of celebrity feminism, Gay raises concerns about the commodification of the feminist movement. While it can be empowering for celebrities to speak out about gender equality, she warns against reducing feminism to a trend or fashionable stance without engaging in the necessary work to enact change. For Gay, true feminism requires active participation and a commitment to addressing the real-world struggles that women face, rather than just the performance of feminist ideals.

Ultimately, Gay’s quote is a call for a more authentic and substantive engagement with feminism—one that goes beyond celebrity endorsements and public displays. She encourages individuals and public figures to not only embrace the feminist label but also to contribute meaningfully to the ongoing struggle for gender equality, focusing on the hard work required to bring about lasting social and structural change.