I try to encourage myself to act in a way that supports gender equality, and I call that feminist. Whatever word people want to use to call that, I'm not really attached to a label.

O.T. Fagbenle’s quote highlights his personal approach to gender equality and his perspective on feminism. By saying, “I try to encourage myself to act in a way that supports gender equality,” Fagbenle emphasizes that his commitment to feminism is grounded in actions rather than labels. He views feminism as a set of principles that guide how he interacts with others and supports equality, rather than a rigid identity. His focus is on actively contributing to social change through behavior, not necessarily on how the movement is labeled or categorized.

The quote also reflects a broader shift in how people understand feminism today. Fagbenle’s statement, “I’m not really attached to a label,” suggests that for him, the core values of feminism—such as fairness, equality, and social justice—are more important than the specific term used to describe them. This highlights a more inclusive, fluid interpretation of feminism, where the focus is on practical actions and beliefs, rather than rigid ideological definitions or external labels.

Fagbenle’s willingness to prioritize gender equality over the need for a label also suggests a broader rejection of the idea that feminism is only about a set of specific rules or expectations. His approach shows that being a feminist is more about aligning one’s actions with social justice and human rights than it is about conforming to a particular view of what feminism should be. It’s a call for individual empowerment and a recognition that anyone, regardless of gender, can contribute to the movement.

Originating from Fagbenle’s experiences as an actor and advocate for social causes, his quote reflects a modern, personal understanding of feminism that focuses on the practical work of creating a more equitable society. His nuanced perspective on gender equality aligns with the evolving conversation around what it means to be a feminist in the 21st century, where action and personal responsibility are prioritized over formal definitions or labels.