In the run-up to International Women’s Day on 8 March, let’s take a look at feminist tattoos, their designs and symbolism.
What is Feminism?
Just a couple of centuries ago, a wife was just a beautiful addition to a husband, a cook and the mother of his children. Women were not allowed to get education, could not choose a profession to their liking, occupy high positions, and earn money themselves, they did not have the right to own property and vote in elections. In response to this unfairness, the feminism movement emerged in the 19th century. Feminism is not about the supremacy of women, as many mistakenly believe, but about women having equal rights with men.
International Women’s Day
This holiday, celebrated on 8 March, originated in Germany in 1910 as the day of women’s solidarity in the fight for equal rights and emancipation.
In 1977, the holiday was officially recognized by the UN. In many countries, people celebrate it as the day of women’s equality, staging campaigns and performances aimed at attracting attention to discrimination against and unfair treatment of women.
Designs and Meanings of Feminist Tattoos
In some parts of the world, where in the past tattoos were the privilege of men, getting a tattoo is viewed as an act of feminism in itself. For many feminists, tattoos are a sort of a statement, a way to proclaim their views and draw attention to issues of gender equality. Let’s look at some popular motifs of feminist tattoos.
Raised Fist
The raised fist is one of the main symbols of feminism that stands for women’s solidarity in the fight for their rights and the symbol of sisterhood.
Valrykie, Amazon
Both these figures were strong and unyielding warriors. In Norse mythology, valkyries were winged female warriors on horses associated with Odin. They collected the souls of fallen warriors from battlefields and took them to Valhalla.
According to Greek mythology, Amazons were an independent tribe of female warriors who needed men only for procreation. Tattoo designs depicting these warriors can be executed in different styles.
Weapons, primarily swords, are another popular take on this tattoo motif.
GRLPWR
‘Girl Power’ is a popular motto that can now be seen not only on posters, but also on women’s bodies. Some women get the entire phrase, others go for its shortened version.
Phrases
One of the most popular phrases for feminist tattoos is Fight like a girl. Some mean it as an insult to one’s manliness, but coming from a feminist, it has a very different meaning.
No bras, no masters has two meanings: the freedom to wear what you like in defiance of social ‘norms’ and the freedom from gender discrimination.
My body — my rules and its variation My body — my choice communicate the message that a woman is free to choose how to look, what to wear, whether to gain or lose weight, wear makeup, or have kids.
Female Symbol
A tattoo of this symbol tells onlookers that its wearer is proud to be a woman.
Any Tattoo
The key goal of feminism is to achieve full gender equality. You are free to choose any tattoo, regardless of whether it’s viewed as a male or female design. If you’re looking for inspiration, visit the theYou gallery.
Tattoos have always been not just a body decoration, but also a way to proclaim views and express one’s personality. Feminist tattoos are an additional opportunity to influcence the society though art, calling attention to gender inequality.
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