In recent days, the meaning of the term “feminism” and what it means to be a feminist has been addressed by many in the media. Celebrities, particularly females, are now publically identifying themselves as feminists or, alternatively, specifically noting that they are not feminists.

Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Shailene Woodley, Meghan Trainor, and Lana del Rey are among the women who have spoken out, claiming that they are not feminists. Lady Gaga cited her reasons for her identification, saying “I’m not a feminist. I hail men, I love men, I celebrate American male culture — beer, bars, and muscle cars.”

On the other side of the spectrum, celebrities like Beyoncé, Lena Dunham, Amy Poehler, and Emma Watson proudly consider themselves feminists. Watson was recently appointed a U.N. Women Goodwill Ambassador and at the U.N. headquarters in New York gave a fervid speech about gender equality, feminism and what exactly they both mean. Watson discussed the term and announced, “I decided I was a feminist and this seemed uncomplicated to me. But my recent research has shown me that feminism has become an unpopular word.”

To delve further into her meaning and why the actual term “feminism” has circulated and garnered such criticism one must consider the literal definition of feminism. According to Merriam-Webster’s online dictionary the primary definition of the word is as follows: “The belief that men and women should have equal rights and opportunities.” Many of those publically lampooning this word do not seem to understand either the meaning or its implications. Oftentimes people say that they love men too much or find feminism a denial of equality, as reasons for their anti-feminist declarations.

In the wildly popular Beyoncé song “***Flawless” a segment from a Ted Talk by acclaimed author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is featured. Adichie states, “Feminist: the person who believes in the social, political, and economic equality of the sexes,” echoing the earlier definition. The term “feminism” can be overthought, but the meaning is simple. Feminism is about equality, not superiority.

Although many people, particularly the aforementioned female celebrities, do not choose to identify as such, they often act as feminists by promoting body positivity, equal rights, and freedom of expression, all characteristics of an active feminist. There seems to be a fear surrounding identifying oneself as a feminist- that the label is too strong and is an implication of hating men. The push back against the actual term feminism is very confusing; it’s unfortunate to see this skewed idea of the feminist movement becoming popularized.

I have considered myself a feminist since I learned about the word as a little girl. Nothing infuriated me more then and now than when I am treated differently or met with different expectations simply because of my gender. I wanted to combat the idea that I, as a female, was inferior in any way to a male.

I remember back in elementary school being first introduced to women such as Susan B. Anthony and Clara Barton and the wonderful things they accomplished, as they passionately endorsed equal rights for women. Why wouldn’t I want to consider myself among the ranks of a movement molded and supported by these incredible women?