Emma Watson’s speech to the United Nations focused on the important issues of feminism and gender equality without sugarcoating the problems.

Watson is a United Nation’s Women Goodwill Ambassador. Her speech focused on the new campaign HeforShe. The goal is for men to help fight for women’s rights and gender equality, and another is to end gender stereotypes.  Both topics were covered with great detail.

The first topic Watson addressed was the negativity associated with the word feminism. She mentioned how feminism has come to be linked with man-hating. While some people might be afraid to make so bold of a statement, she was not afraid to admonish men who have an overtly-negative view of feminism.

Further on she mentioned women feeling like they have to drop out of sports because it makes them too manly, or the media judging women based on stereotypes associated with their gender. This is not right because girls should be able to play sports. It does not make them manly just because a girl might choose to play soccer or lacrosse. No woman should ever worry about how someone sees her, including the media.

Gender roles are another issue brought up. Watson talked about women being called bossy. Other words that could go with that are assertive, demanding and power-hungry. All of these words I have heard used towards women who are in charge of companies or smaller functions like clubs or an event. It is okay for a man to be in charge, but a woman is viewed as bossy. If someone is called bossy for directing something, then it needs to apply to both men and women.

Watson took on male stereotypes as well. This is what made her speech distinct from other speeches on women’s rights. Male gender roles were brought up in a way not usually thought of.  She mentioned the idea that men cannot express themselves or their feelings. All males should feel like they can express themselves any way they choose.

Lack of male involvement in the fight for equal rights was mentioned. This was one of the strongest points in Watson’s whole speech. Right now, it is predominantly women fighting for equal rights. In order for there to be true gender equality, both genders need to be involved. There is no way for laws to get passed, or for gender equality to be socially acceptable unless both parties make it that way. Absence of male participation is part of the reason women still don’t receive equal rights.

Watson discussion brought a lot of thought to the issues. The United Nations campaign HeforShe has the potential to go far. It will take the help of females and males to take this off the ground.  Watson’s opening speech gave great insight into the problem at hand. It is now up to others to make this a reality.