Feminism is not dead, by no means. It has evolved. If you don't

The gentle hum of the café filled the air, with the soft tapping of rain against the window. Jack sat across from Jeeny, his coffee cup cradled in his hands, staring out at the rain-soaked streets. Jeeny, sitting opposite him, seemed lost in thought, her fingers lightly tracing the rim of her cup.

Host: After a moment of silence, Jeeny spoke, her voice thoughtful, but with a touch of curiosity.

Jeeny: “I came across a quote from Isabel Allende today that made me think about how feminism is viewed and how it evolves over time. She said, ‘Feminism is not dead, by no means. It has evolved. If you don’t like the term, change it, for Goddess’ sake. Call it Aphrodite, or Venus, or bimbo, or whatever you want; the name doesn’t matter, as long as we understand what it is about, and we support it.’ What do you think about that? Do you think the term ‘feminism’ is still as relevant today, or is it time for a new definition?”

Jack: He looked up, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. “I think Allende is making an important point about labels and how the meaning behind them is what matters most. Feminism is an evolving idea—it’s about the empowerment and equality of women, and while the term itself might have evolved over the years, its core message remains the same. It’s not about the label; it’s about the action and the intention behind it. Whether we call it feminism, Aphrodite, or something else, the key is that we understand and support the core values of equality and justice.”

Jeeny: “Exactly. The word itself might carry different connotations for different people, but the essence of feminism—or whatever you choose to call it—is still about freedom and equality. The struggle has always been about changing the structures that oppress and limit opportunities for women, and that fight isn’t over. The world has changed a lot, but the need for social change remains just as important. Allende’s point is that we don’t need to be stuck on the name. What matters is that we keep moving forward, supporting what the movement represents.”

Host: The rain outside had softened, leaving a quiet stillness in the café. Jack shifted slightly in his seat, his fingers still resting on his coffee cup as he continued.

Jack: “I think it’s also about how the movement has adapted to new challenges. Feminism today isn’t just about gender equality in the workplace—it’s about intersectionality, addressing racism, classism, and other systems of oppression that affect women. The movement has had to evolve to meet those needs, and the term might change or take on different meanings as society progresses. But the foundation remains the same—fighting for equal rights and recognition.”

Jeeny: “Yes, and I think the idea of evolution is key here. Just like Allende says, if the term feminism doesn’t resonate for some, it’s okay to redefine it. The most important thing is that we don’t lose sight of the values behind the movement. It’s not about the term itself, but about the fight for empowerment, respect, and opportunity for women everywhere. The label may change, but the goal doesn’t.”

Host: The conversation between them seemed to deepen, as they both reflected on the evolving nature of feminism. Jack set his coffee cup down gently, his expression thoughtful.

Jack: “Exactly. It’s about adaptability. The challenges women face may evolve, but the vision of equality and respect remains at the heart of the movement. Whether you call it feminism, equality, or something else entirely, the real question is: Are we still fighting for a world where women have the same opportunities, respect, and agency as men? If the answer is yes, then the movement is still alive and necessary.”

Jeeny: Her smile was small but filled with understanding. “Exactly. And that’s what makes feminism such a dynamic movement—it changes to meet the needs of the time, but the core purpose stays the same: to ensure that all women are free to live on equal terms with men, in every aspect of life.”

Host: The rain had stopped completely, leaving a calm in the air. Inside, Jack and Jeeny sat in the realization that the essence of feminism is not tied to a particular name or label, but to the ongoing pursuit of equality, justice, and freedom. Isabel Allende’s words serve as a reminder that the fight for women’s rights is always evolving, and what matters most is that we continue to understand and support the core principles, no matter what we choose to call it.