You had a generation of women, of which I'm part, where it was a stigma to be associated with feminism; there was a backlash. Now you have a generation that is clearly embracing feminism because, at the end of the day, the definition of feminism is just equality.

Nancy Dubuc’s quote reflects a shift in the perception of feminism over time. She describes how, for her generation of women, being associated with feminism was seen as stigmatizing, and there was significant backlash against it. This reflects a period in history when feminist ideals were often viewed negatively, as controversial or radical, by many in mainstream society. The backlash Dubuc mentions underscores how feminism was misunderstood and at times actively resisted by those who feared its implications for traditional gender roles.

However, Dubuc contrasts this experience with the current generation of women, who are now embracing feminism. She notes that today’s youth view feminism not as a divisive or stigmatized movement, but as a natural and essential part of the quest for equality. This generational shift signifies how societal attitudes toward feminism have evolved, with more people understanding that the movement’s core purpose is simply to advocate for gender equality.

The quote highlights that, despite the historical challenges faced by feminists, the definition of feminism has remained constant: it’s about equality between genders. Dubuc’s statement emphasizes that feminism is not about superiority or undermining men, but about creating a fair and just society where people, regardless of gender, have equal rights and opportunities. This focus on equality is what makes feminism universally relevant and important.

The origin of this quote comes from Dubuc’s reflections on the changing cultural landscape, particularly regarding feminism and gender equality. As a leader in the media industry, she has seen firsthand how feminism has shifted from a divisive concept to one that is increasingly accepted and embraced by a broader audience. Dubuc’s perspective speaks to the progress made, as well as the ongoing efforts to redefine feminism in a way that resonates with people today.