Christmastime is nearly upon us, which means Americans across the country are anxiously contemplating the perfect gifts for their loved ones. But what should you buy your friend who loves Lena Dunham? Or your niece who always works Gloria Steinem into Christmas dinner conversation?
Never fear. If you’re looking for “objects that don’t objectify” or “presents that don’t prop up the patriarchy,” feminist media has you covered. If you act on any of these gift suggestions for the “badass feminists” in your life, you’ll score points with your most progressive loved ones.
1. For the Combative Cousin
According to Guardian writer Arwa Mahdawi, a mallet (for toppling the patriarchy) could be a unique and empowering gift. Similarly belligerent options include the “Riot Mom” mug suggested by Huffington Post’s Catherine Pearson and the “Riots Not Diets” poster recommended by Refinery29’s Sophie Kreitzberg (with the latter, you’ll promote body positivity and advocate protesting for only $5).
2. For the Feminine Feminist
Jewelry isn’t always a good pick for feminists, who may feel that it encourages girly stereotypes. However, some major pinky bling (a mark of self-love defying men and engagement rings) smashes stereotypes while simultaneously supplying sparkle. And if you fancy something to adorn your neck, Kreitzberg suggests a vagina charm necklace, in silver, gold or rose gold. Take that, Donald Trump.
3. For Mamas Against Misogyny
How about a “feminist” tote to replace that worn diaper bag? Or a “mothers against misogyny” top? And thanks to Pearson’s research, you’ll have quite the selection of fabulous baby onesies to choose from. With messages like “Zero time for patriarchy,” “I’m crying because misogyny sucks,” and “I’ll start walking when women get equal pay #babies4equality,” tots will be well outfitted thanks to you.
4. For the Hillary Fangirl
You just can’t go wrong with a classic “Nasty Woman” t-shirt. But your fangirl friend likely has that already, so why not gift her the top, suggested by Mic’s Marilyn La Jeunesse, reading: “Proud member of Pantsuit Nation”? “Wearing your opinions on your sleeve (literally) can be a great way to feel powerful and start conversations with like-minded people,” Kreitzberg opined. “And outwardly paying homage to gender equality might even encourage your uninitiated friends and acquaintances to pick your brain on the topic.” So there. The gift that keeps on giving.
5. For the Planned Parenthood Proponent
For the girl who’s got enough stuff, a donation to her favorite abortion and birth control provider can be a good option, suggested La Jeunesse. And if you want to get a tangible gift and support Planned Parenthood, there are plenty of ways to do that as well. In fact, a percentage of the proceeds from some of the gifts above are already donated to the organization.
6. For the Intersectional Champion
If you don’t already know, intersectional feminism is the idea that certain groups of people, like black or transgender women, deal with multiple levels of oppression such as race, gender or sexual identity. For the folks in your life who are passionate about this approach, why not buy a “How dare you assume I’m straight” shirt (recommended by Pearson, who writes: “Say no to heteronormativity. Say yes to this incredible shirt.”) A “Black Girl Magic” shirt is a great choice too.
7. For the Avowed Man-Hater
According to Pearson, there’s a tea cup-shaped pin filled with male tears. And a cotton-scented candle by the same name, “if your BFF is more into burning male tears than drinking them.” As you do.
