It is widely accepted today that women in America always get the short end of the stick. 

Feminism ranges anywhere from political and social movements to ideologies that go on the share one common goal: to establish the social equity of gender. 

This also includes establishing educational and professional opportunities for women who are equal to those for men. 

Sociology and English teacher Eghosa Obaiza took up the feminist mantle on campus by educating students on what feminism actually means in a clear-cut way from her point of view.

“In the grand scheme of things the real meaning of feminism is finding equity for men and women,” said Obaiza.

As a sociology teacher, Obaiza is able to go in depth on the true meaning of feminism and the impact it has on society and culture.

By empowering youth it can hopefully impact students to soon bring intersectional awareness.

“I think finding a way to empower all students to be a voice for equity across the board is the way to go and is a start in the right direction,” said Obaiza.

There are different types of feminists that range from liberal to radical feminists to even socialist and Marxist feminists. But Obaiza doesn’t label or classify herself as any type of feminist whatsoever.

Even though Obaiza stands for feminism, she said she doesn’t label herself as a feminist.

“I understand what feminism means and I agree 100 percent with it,” she said. “But it’s easy for lots of people to call other people out for saying they’re feminists for talking about equality when the reality is it’s something that should feel very natural for everyone to actually consider.”

Regardless, Obaiza has had a significant impact on many students on campus. 

“There are certain ascpects on feminism that are toxic. Whether it’s on a matter of education or not, I think people should be educated and that there are inequalities that should be fixed,” said junior Irene Kao.

She not only gives students a voice, she also gets them involved by creating a safe learning environment for them on campus.

“Ms. E has helped us understand the equity for men and women as well as give us a better understanding on feminism and the kind of role it has in our society,” said senior Carter Silletto.

She creates this safe environment by inviting students to come to her class during tutorial and lunch, and by  having discussions on feminism during class. This gives her students a chance to discuss these types of topics in her class, allowing everyone to open up and share their points of view.  

“Being at this school I work really hard to give a voice to students, to speak on and be apart of and critically think about issues that are important to them and that pertain to their lives,” said Obaiza.

Obaiza hopes to see all students use their voices to empower everyone after high school and have it carry on soon to their careers. 

“I think by giving students a voice my hope is they can go out in the real world and use that same voice to have an impact with whatever community they’re working in or participating in,” Obaiza said.