Being a Feminist Leader

Traditional leadership often functions by creating top down hierarchies, which of course always leaves someone powerless at the bottom. Feminists, who value equality above all else, often reject this structure in search of something more inclusive. But is inclusivity the most effective way for an organization to function?

Without a leader to take charge and make final decisions, groups can flounder. It often helps to have a strong personality that is not afraid to make decisions, but for those decisions to matter the person must authority to make them. This is the primary benefit of having a organization president. The other executive officers typically offer advice and support. Unfortunately, in a lot of groups this leaves the members to be nothing but grunt workers with no say in what will happen. Of course, they always have the option to run for an officer position, but vying for power doesn't make for satisfied volunteers.

Being a feminist leader requires one to walk the line between efficiency and fairness. It often takes far longer for a feminist organization to accomplish anything in comparison to other groups because we spend so much time in discussion. Even if it slows the process to hear all voices, it's essential to creating a better society. Social justice topics are often deeply personal to those advocating them. There can be no right answer for everyone, nor should there be. Being a feminist means listening to and respecting this diversity of opinions.

For a group to succeed and maintain feminist values, it cannot simply do away with all roles of power. Instead, they should seek leaders who are empathetic and respectful, while still able to be assertive in a non-alienating way. It can be uncomfortable to take this leadership role, because it's difficult to be respectful of everyone and you will hurt someone (and this can be emotionally painful for social justice groups). My advice to all social justice leaders is to take the time to learn as much as possible, but in the end make the decision you think is right and don't be apologetic. Accept that feelings will hurt, but don't agonize over it and continue to reach out to those folks.

Be fierce! Be confident.