Yahoo Lifestyle Emma Watson Gives Powerful Speech On Gender Equality
Emma Watson is fast becoming an advocate for women's rights, and we can't get enough.
The Harry Potter actress was named UN Women Goodwill Ambassador just two months ago, and since then, has embraced her new role by speaking candidly about feminism.
Over the weekend, the actress gave a speech on feminism and gender at the U.N. Headquarters in New York to launch the "HeForShe" campaign pact, which aims to encourage boys and men to join the fight for gender equality.
"I am reaching out to you because we need your help," Watson began. "We must try to mobilise as many men and boys as possible to be advocates for change. We don't just want to talk about it. We want to try and make sure it's tangible."
Watson said that despite popular belief, being a feminist wasn't about being aggressive, or anti-men, or unattractive.
"I decided that I was a feminist," the actress aid. "This seemed uncomplicated to me. But my recent research has shown me that feminism has become an unpopular word. Women are choosing not to identify as feminists.
"Why has the word become such an unpopular one? I think it is right I am paid the same as my male counterparts. I think it is right that I should make decisions about my own body. I think it is right that women be involved on my behalf in the policies and decisions that affect my life. I think it is right that socially, I am afforded the same respect as men."
Watson added that the audience was probably rightfully thinking, 'Who is this Harry Potter girl? What is she doing at the UN?'
"I've been asking myself at the same thing," Watson admitted. "All I know is that I care about this problem and I want to make this better. And having seen what I've seen and given the chance, I feel my responsibility to say something. Edmund Burke said all that is need for the forces of evil to triumph is for good men and women to do nothing."
Regardless of her background, Watson's advocacy is important in bringing the issue back into the limelight.
RELATED:
Emma Watson Appointed UN Women Goodwill Ambassador
