Faux Feminism: Why We Fall for White Feminism and How We Can Stop

For readers of Hood Feminism and Against White Feminism An incisive examination of why the pillars of feminism have eroded—and how all women, not just the #girlbosses, can rebuild them After over 175 years, the feminist movement, now in its fourth wave, is at risk of collapsing on its eroding foundation. In Faux Feminism , political philosopher Serene Khader advocates for another feminism—one that doesn’t overwhelmingly serve white, affluent #girlbosses. With empathy, passion, and wit, Khader invites the reader to join her as she excavates the movement’s history and draws a blueprint for a more inclusive and resilient future. A feminist myth buster, Khader begins by deconstructing “faux feminisms.” Thought to be the pillars of good feminism, they may appeal to many but, in truth, leave most women behind. Khader identifies these traps that white feminism lays for us all, asking readers to think critically... For readers of Hood Feminism and Against White Feminism Anincisive examination ofhow the pillars of feminismhave erodedand howall women, not just the white neoliberals, can rebuildthem Faux Feminism offers a fresh analysis of todays mainstream feminist movement, arguing that the movements central value on women's individual freedoms has resulted in a brand of feminism that serves only a small minority of women and that actively excludesif not harmsthe majority.Arguing that the future of the feminist movement depends on rejecting what Serene Khader calls todays freedom feminism, Khader explores global and intersectional feminist lessons, presenting a much-needed feminist activism that goes beyond freedom and is more politically impactful as a result.A powerful alternative to white feminist, neoliberal feminist, and otherwise exclusionary feminist movements, Khaders proposed feminism draws from historical and contemporary womens movements around the world and ultimately centers equality over individual freedom.Grounded in rich stories drawn from cultural and political movements and informed by Khaders unique expertise as both a political philosopher and as a scholar of global social movements, this book offers a positive vision that is capable of grounding feminist action.Khader begins by debunking five myths of freedom feminism. These myths pervasive idea that Western feminism should free other women from their cultures;-the false assumption that we can effect social change by changing women, or other oppressed groups, in isolation;-and the myth that it is inherently feminist to celebrate womens choices without first interrogating the limited menu of choices first presented to these women.Throughout the book Khader draws on real world global feminist practices to build the case for a new feminism centered on equality. Arguing that only a feminism that is rooted in community and tackles inequality on the societal level is going to bring about widespread change, Khader shows that women of color, especially in the global south, have understood and practiced this feminism for a long time and insists that closer attention be paid to the lessons these women have to offer.