This is what a feminist looks like

I have a very wonderful and smart and capable friend who is always doing interesting things.

Her current project is one that I am very much looking forward to being a part of – when I get organised.

It is called "The Dawn Conspiracy" – and here is some information about it. And more importantly how you can get involved.

The Dawn Conspiracy is a new initiative that will take a look Inside Australian Feminist Culture in the lead up to International Women's Day 2011 (8 March). More information about the The Dawn Conspiracy can be found at thedawnconspiracy.tumblr.com, on Twitter @dawnconspiracy or you can email us at thedawnconspiracy@gmail.com.
Of the line up of events that have been organised, we are creating a video project that showcases the voices of Australians who see feminism as an important part of Australian culture and their own lives. Much like the It Gets Better Project, we hope feminists from around the country will contribute and tell us why feminism is important to them. Our crack team of editors will create a presentation that will be screened at the Friday 4th March gala event, as well as uploaded to our YouTube channel. It would be an amazing way to show your support for this new initiative and connect with other supporters.

Sounds good? This is how you can be involved..

All you need to do is film yourself answering one or all of these questions:

1) I'm a feminist because ...
2) To me, feminism means ...
3) What would you tell your younger self about women?

Send responses to us by 1 March to be included in the public presentation on the 5th, otherwise keep them coming and they'll be uploaded to our YouTube channel.As part of the line up of events that have been organised, we are creating a video project that showcases the voices of Australians who see feminism as an important part of Australian culture and their own lives. Much like the It Gets Better Project, we hope feminists from around the country will contribute and tell us why feminism is important to them. Our crack team of editors will create a presentation that will be screen at the Friday 4^th March gala event, as well as uploaded to our YouTube Channel. It would be an amazing way to show your support for this new initiative .

Sound good? This is how you can be involved…

All you need to do is film yourself answering one or all of these questions

I am a feminist because…

• To me, feminism means…
  
• What would you tell your younger self about women?
  

http://www.youtube.com/user/thedawnconspiracy

So in Today's installment – I am going to write my thoughts on this – so it will be easier when I come to film them tonight.

I am a feminist because I think that it is my duty to continue to fight the good fight – and remind young women that we stand so tall because we stand on the shoulders of giants. I am a feminist so I can raise the profile of outstanding women from all walks of life and areas of the globe. I am a feminist because I truly believe girls CAN do anything.

To me feminism means highlighting the successes of women, supporting and encouraging women to reach their own version of success and to be a 'thorn in the side' of mainstream thinking that continues to reinforce old fashioned stereotypes.

I would tell my younger self to recognise her allies amongst the strong women in her life. I would tell her that amazing women come from everywhere, not just those that she sees on TV. I would tell her to accept their support and advice in good grace – because they have already fought the battle and will save her a lot of heartache. I would tell her to recognise that it is neither men nor women who are the enemy – but outdated thinking and the limits that she places on herself. And above all I would let her know that no matter the obstacles, pain or heartache, girls truly can do anything.