We don't all have to believe in the same feminism. Feminism can be pluralistic so long as we respect the different feminisms we carry with us, so long as we give enough of a damn to try to minimize the fractures among us. Feminism will better succeed with collective effort, but feminist success can also rise out of personal conduct.
Roxane GayFeminism's failings do not mean we should eschew feminism entirely. People do terrible things all the time, but we don't regularly disown our humanity. We disavow the terrible things. We should disavow the failures of feminism without disavowing its many successes and how far we have come.
Roxane GayPeople of color are not under any kind of obligation beyond working hard, doing their best, and learning from their mistakes.
Roxane GayI love romantic comedies. I know how terrible they are, but I love them! And I don't think that makes me less of a feminist.
Roxane Gay