This speech displayed a lot of what I had learned in my Knowledge & Power class. In this speech, a unique view was presented: feminism is considered an issue for men as much as it is for women because men have also been suffering from gender inequality. I especially loved how Emma Watson formally invited all men to also partake in this movement because making feminism a gender inclusive topic for everyone displays exactly what it stands for: “The belief that men and women should have equal rights and opportunities. It is the theory of the political, economic and social equality of the sexes.” Emma Watson also addressed those who are undecided using a quote from English Statesman Edmund Burke: “All that is needed for the forces of evil to triumph is for enough good men and women to do nothing.” I think she really took advantage of her privilege, and used it in a productive and meaningful way to stand up for an issue that needs to be addressed. 

     She also shared a story of when she was growing up, where she mentioned that talking about one’s achievements was looked down upon. However, when she stated how hard she has worked for her achievements, I realized that she has every right to accept the award from United Nations. Her speech not only made me realize that I shouldn’t be ashamed of my achievements, but also the fact that there is a path for women where they don’t have to choose between a career and family, if that’s what they want. 

     On Wednesday, Nov. 11, there was a PLEN meeting in the Douglass Campus Center. The organizer went over many different PLEN seminars that happened already, along with student speakers who shared their opinions on the experience. I thought that the experiences were really vulnerable because the students mentioned that they got to speak with a lot of women leaders who shared the obstacles they’ve had to go through as a women and offered a lot of advice on how to succeed. I heard that there was a lot of support for each other and the women leaders also offered to help via email in the future, if it’s ever needed. After going to this PLEN meeting, my opinion of attending a PLEN in the future dramatically increased. I think attending a PLEN is a great way to learn more about the experiences of other women leaders and also gain more confidence in pursuing a big dream, no matter what other people says.