I really appreciated this sharp and necessary critique of choice feminism. The idea that “choice” is inherently empowering ignores how structural inequalities shape which options are even available in the first place. It’s not just about whether a woman makes a choice, it’s about who gets to choose, what choices they realistically have access to, and what the consequences are depending on race, class, and status.
What resonated most with me was your point about white women turning spectacle into currency, profiting off controversy or sexuality, only to retreat into the safety of whiteness, conservatism, or mainstream respectability when it’s convenient. Meanwhile, Black women (and other marginalized groups) often face lasting consequences for doing far less. The imbalance in who gets punished and who gets to rebrand is rarely acknowledged in mainstream feminist discourse, and I’m really grateful that you named it so clearly here.
Thank you so much for your comment. I’ve never felt more understood in my life lol! This is exactly the point that I was making and I’m glad it was expressed so succinctly. 🤎
Thank you for receiving it so generously! Your piece really gave language to something I’ve been feeling, especially within the context of white feminism which more often than not ignores how race, class, and survival shape what’s even possible.
You articulated so clearly how spectacle and rebranding work differently depending on privilege. That’s why intersectional analysis matters as it forces us to look at who actually pays the price for these so-called empowered choices.
I really appreciated this sharp and necessary critique of choice feminism. The idea that “choice” is inherently empowering ignores how structural inequalities shape which options are even available in the first place. It’s not just about whether a woman makes a choice, it’s about who gets to choose, what choices they realistically have access to, and what the consequences are depending on race, class, and status.
What resonated most with me was your point about white women turning spectacle into currency, profiting off controversy or sexuality, only to retreat into the safety of whiteness, conservatism, or mainstream respectability when it’s convenient. Meanwhile, Black women (and other marginalized groups) often face lasting consequences for doing far less. The imbalance in who gets punished and who gets to rebrand is rarely acknowledged in mainstream feminist discourse, and I’m really grateful that you named it so clearly here.
Thank you so much for your comment. I’ve never felt more understood in my life lol! This is exactly the point that I was making and I’m glad it was expressed so succinctly. 🤎
Thank you for receiving it so generously! Your piece really gave language to something I’ve been feeling, especially within the context of white feminism which more often than not ignores how race, class, and survival shape what’s even possible.
You articulated so clearly how spectacle and rebranding work differently depending on privilege. That’s why intersectional analysis matters as it forces us to look at who actually pays the price for these so-called empowered choices.
Looking forward to reading more of your work 💜
Appreciate your work, Deziré. I always feel the love, care, passion, and sheer amount of time you put into your posts!
Thank you Jack!! I appreciate that. I hope your enjoying your summer. 🤭