Everyday Sexism

"Sure thing sweetheart." "No problem honey." "Anything for you darling."

These are a few of the comments I hear from time to time at my job at the bookshop. Now, comments like these are few and far between, and even when I do get them, I usually don't mind. However, every now and then some big, macho-man, (usually wearing a sports jersey and a cocky grin) comes to the counter and talks down to me like I'm a ditzy blonde cheerleader. Nicknames like "honey" or "sweetheart" are intended to be endearing, but they are often used as a tool to subtly sexualize women.

Luckily, almost every aspect of my life has encouraged me to become an empowered woman. Growing up with three brothers, I was never treated much differently because I was a girl. In addition, the atmosphere of female leadership and empowerment at the Mount has helped me to try and become a successful and confident young woman. However, during the past few years, I've realized that in most parts of the world, women are not treated with the respect and dignity that I have been fortunate enough to be treated with.

After watching Miss Representation and reading articles about the sexualization of women at an alarmingly young age, I feel frightened. I am afraid of growing old in a world where women are only valued for their youth and beauty. However, I also feel empowered by the powerful women we saw in the documentary. Women like Katie Couric, Condoleezza Rice, and Hilary Clinton who are making advances for women everywhere. After seeing how powerful and confident these women are, I feel inspired to make myself into a better woman and a better example for the generations of girls who will come after me.