Welcome to Latin Music’s Feminine Revolution
2023 kicked off with a true cultural reset across Latin America when the Queen of Latin Music, Shakira, dropped her now Grammy-winning track Shakira: BZRP Music Sessions Vol. 53. Since…
Dear Matt Rife, misogyny isn’t funny
If you’ve been online in the past few days, then you have probably heard that former internet darling Matt Rife has been quite the misogynist. For those of you who…
What about men? Addressing men’s issues within feminism
“We have spent so much time making girls feel proud and joyful and able to campaign for their own rights. But we kind of have neglected our boys for our…
Still confused about Israel-Palestine? Here’s what you need to know
Media outlets are saturated with news of ongoing violence between Israel and the Gaza Strip, one of two geographically disconnected Palestinian territories. Thousands have lost their lives, with countless others…
What was the UNGA, and why didn’t gender equality feature?
The United Nations General Assembly, widely referred to as UNGA, met for the 78th time back in September for the annual high-level meeting. All leaders and monarchs of all 193…
Are we collectively holding people of colour in government to a higher standard?
Whenever another story about the UK Conservative government appears in the headlines, I have to physically restrain myself from loudly sighing with resignation before reading. From the Home Secretary’s, Suella…
How Susan Clayton quite literally ran into business
It was outside, on one particularly cold Baltimore morning, that Susan Clayton had her ‘lightbulb’ moment. As a running coach for non-profit, Back on My Feet, Susan would be up by…
From Tesco to a pineapple under the sea: Hannah Lowther on women in the West End
TikTok Superstar Hannah Lowther is one to watch, her meteoric rise to stardom has been like a fairy-tale. Working as a Tesco employee during the COVID-19 lockdown, Hannah, like most…
“The Roman Empire trend is telling us something, and we should listen.”
So, What’s the Buzz? You’ve probably seen it, right? Women on TikTok asking men how often they think about the Roman Empire. And the men? They’re thinking about it—a lot.…
GUTS Review – Olivia Rodrigo’s Sophmore Masterpiece
Few artists are able to achieve a cultural moment with their debut album quite like Olivia Rodrigo did with her first album, SOUR. The album was released in the midst…
Mexican Supreme Court Rules to Decriminalise Abortion Nationwide
On the 6th of September, the Mexican Supreme Court ruled to decriminalise abortion across all of the states of Mexico. Mexico is a federal country, and individual states hold similar…
Truth Hurts, Here’s a Full Timeline of all the Lizzo Drama
It’s safe to say most of us were not feeling good as hell when news broke at the start of August that beloved positivity icon Lizzo was being sued by…
I Tried Eating ‘Girl Dinner’ for a Week
If you’ve been on TikTok in the past few months, you may have noticed the new ‘girl dinner’ trend where women showcase simplistic or slightly unhinged meals. Classic girl dinner…
Spanish FA Chief claims Hermoso was lying after non consensual kiss at the Women’s World Cup Final
Please note this is an ongoing story, meaning further updates are likely. On Sunday 20th August, Spanish Football Chief, Luis Rubiales found himself the subject of justified scrutiny after kissing…
Girl Math: Why justifying your Taylor Swift tickets is actually generational trauma
“No, because actually, you see, a real-life horse is £4000 outright and then the RSPCA says that it costs up to £150 a month for insurance, and that’s not even…
Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels: The damaging consequences of 2000s diet culture
Content warning: The following article discusses dieting and disordered eating. I’ve always kept journals. Now, they’re in the Notes app on my phone, mixed with to-do and shopping lists. But…
Blueberry Milk Nails and Latte Makeup: the Correlation between Trends, Capitalism and Identity
The red nail theory is this summer’s hot new nail trend, and we are OBSESSED. Oh wait, sorry, in the time it took to write that sentence, red nails are…
‘Below Deck Down Under’ crew member fired for sexual misconduct
Fans of the popular Aussie TV show ‘Below Deck Down Under’, a reality television show about the crew of a charter luxury yacht and the ins and outs of their…
Breast is best: The secret shame behind formula feeding
This week is everyone’s favourite international holiday…World Breastfeeding Week! The simple act of feeding babies is a routine as old as time itself and breastfeeding as a concept has a…
Meet TikTok’s Powerhouse Gamer Girl
As someone who only occasionally dabbles in the world of gaming, I find it quite hard to find content creators in the gaming space who I feel I can relate…
The Power: The relevant and captivating show we need right now
On the 31st of March, the first three episodes of The Power aired on Amazon Prime. Based on the hugely successful novel by Naomi Alderman, The Power explores an alternative…
But you should have just asked: The Burden of the ‘Mental Load’
Last week, when I was finishing off an article, my son’s nursery rang to tell me that his nappy cream had run low; innocuous, perhaps, but it triggered a storm…
From problematic to feminist: The history of Barbie
Girlies unite! The time is almost upon us for the cinema release of the century, Oppenheimer Barbie! The feature-length film, directed by the absolute girlboss Greta Gerwig, who’s brought us…
Italian judge dismisses groping charges due to ’10 second rule’
Can an act of sexual harassment be deemed insignificant if it lasts for less than 10 seconds? This is the subject of intense discussion on social media in Italy, as…
6 Essential Black authors you need to start reading
I sincerely believe that Philip Reef’s book, “Freud: The Vision of the Moralist,” was written by Susan Sontag. Everyone who knows Suzanne Sontag’s journalism knows that she perceives social behaviour…
The ultimate festival safety guide: protecting you and your besties this festival season
Summer is upon us, which means the UK festival scene is already up and running. For most people, festivals are a time for fun, good music, good weather, and making…
Colleen Ballinger responds to allegations of grooming minors with a song and faces intense backlash
Colleen Ballinger, the popular 36-year-old YouTuber and creator of the online character Miranda Sings has responded to allegations of grooming minors. The allegations first surfaced in 2020, when a former…
Trailblazing feminist writer, Peg Yorkin, dies age 96
Peg Yorkin, a trailblazing feminist writer and producer, died on June 26, 2023, at the age of 96. Yorkin was best known for her work on the groundbreaking television series…
Lawmakers reject hateful bill imposing obligation on schools to reveal trans pupils’ identities
MPs from across the political spectrum have expressed their condemnation of a bill proposed by the Reclaim Party’s sole member of parliament. The bill aimed to mandate schools to disclose…
Equity in Cricket report unveils alarming gender discrimination in English and Welsh Cricket
Racism, sexism, classism, and elitism have been revealed as pervasive issues within English and Welsh cricket, according to a comprehensive report conducted by the Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket…
Rina Sawayama just ENDED Matty Healy, Here’s Why
Glastonbury is a rite of passage for so many of the world’s greatest musicians. From Elton John to Billie Eilish, the festival has been a victory lap for the top…
Editor’s Letter: Pride 2023
Dear readers, Happy Pride Month! I couldn’t be more thrilled to be celebrating pride with you! Pride is a powerful celebration that goes beyond just waving rainbow flags. It’s a…
I tried not wearing makeup for a month, this is what happened
For years, wearing makeup has been a staple in my daily routine. At about 13 years old, I decided on a daily makeup look, and I have sworn fealty to…
Mother’s jail sentence sparks controversy in abortion pill case
Content warning: this article contains mentions of abortion. Carla Foster, 44, a mother of three, has been sentenced to more than two years for inducing an abortion at home after…
Transforming the West End: Mason Alexander Park’s journey to representation on the stage
Willkommen! And Bienvenue! The New Feminist had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with the extraordinarily talented Mason Alexander Park, whose stellar performance as the Emcee in Cabaret has been…
Andrew Tate and his brother charged with rape and human trafficking
Misogynist influencer Andrew Tate has been charged in Romania with rape, human trafficking, and forming an organised crime group to sexually exploit women. His brother Tristan and two associates have…
11 LGBTQ+ artists you need to know
Pride Month celebrations are almost always a great opportunity to hear the music that most resonates with the LGBTQ+ community, from Kylie Minogue (stream Padam Padam, the unofficial 2023 Pride…
Review: Secrets in the Wind
Bangladesh is a country that is far too often overlooked in contemporary literature. Even as a person who actively seeks out books by non-Western authors and books sset in non-Western…
The Laws that Erase Us; America’s wave of anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation
At the end of February, I settled in at The Royal Court to watch Hannan and Alabanza’s ‘Sound of the Underground’. I didn’t have much context other than that it…
A comprehensive guide to your first Pride
It’s Pride 2023! Where rainbow flags fly high, love knows no bounds, and equality takes centre stage. As the Pride season for 2023 unfolds, cities across the globe are gearing…
Where to Celebrate Pride 2023 in the UK
pride 2023
From empowerment to demonisation: Exploring the treatment of women influencers through @bestdressed’s online presence
Cyber sexism and misogyny have been prevalent since the creation of the internet, and in recent years it’s been getting worse. According to a study by UN Women, 38% of…
Did this nun find God or her clit?
*This article discusses religious experiences relevant to the Catholic Church; the information presented is merely based upon theories and does not reflect official Church doctrine or Christian beliefs. St Teresa…
In Memorium: Tina Turner
On May 24, the Queen of Rock and Roll, Tina Turner, passed away at the age of 83 after a long-term illness. In the wake of her passing, many around…
11 Essential practices to revitalise your mental health as an Activist
Engaging in activism can be an enriching yet emotionally demanding journey. I jumped headfirst into activism with absolutely no regard for my mental health because it didn’t seem important when…
Manifesting: A Super Simple Guide to Living Your Best Life
Let’s talk about manifesting and affirmations. Sounds a bit other-worldly, right? Don’t worry; my eyebrows shot up, too, when I first read about them on a self-care Instagram page. I…
5 Matriarchal Societies in India you might not know about
In yet another debate of patriarchy vs matriarchy – let us try and understand what a matriarchal society is. All around the globe, we have been hearing only about patriarchy…
I don’t have to smash the patriarchy to be a feminist
It’s hard not to feel like social media is casting a scrutinising eye over everything we do. Particularly during the pandemic, where most forms of social activism happened in digital…
No More Stolen Sisters: 5 Indigenous creators to follow this May 5th
Content Warning: this article discusses and mentions rape, violence, murder, genocide, and settler colonialism in relation to the missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and Two-Spirit people May 5th is…
Was Shakespeare a feminist?
You might wonder what constitutes feminist theatre. According to Study.com, the main components of feminist theatre are telling stories of wrongly unjust women, critiquing systems of power that oppress women,…
The surprisingly turbulent history of the lesbian flag
At first glance, it may seem like the flags of the LGBTQ+ communities are ‘just flags’ but in reality, they are powerful symbols of solidarity and identity. All parts of…
Is Satanism a feminist religion?
When you think of Satanism you are more than likely plagued with thoughts of sacrificed babies, inverted crucifixes, and a trail of other horror movie tropes. Some of the more…
Celebrating Lesbian Visibility Week with Nonchalant Magazine
It’s Lesbian Visibility Week and to mark the occasion, The New Feminist interviewed Abi Martin Hill, founder of Nonchalant magazine. Nonchalant is a digital lifestyle magazine for queer women and…
Influencer MeatyMollie reveals her experience in a Fat Camp
For most of us in the UK the idea of summer camp is synonymous with American TV and film, something that ultimately we don’t have much first hand experience with.…
The most shocking quotes from men writing women
Ever read a novel and think surely no woman looks even remotely like this? Like what women have these male authors seen and why did they think those adjectives were…
5 Sexist songs we didn’t know were sexist at the time
It is no secret that music is often a tool to empower and uplift people. From protest songs like “Fuck the Police” by N.W.A., to girl power anthems such as…
Andrew Tate released from custody and placed under house arrest
Following a judicial decision, controversial social media influencer Andrew Tate and his brother Tristan were transferred from custody to house arrest last night. The most recent period of imprisonment, which…
“What Shamima Begum did was wrong, but leaving her marooned in the ruins of her bad decisions won’t solve anything.”
In 2015 three schoolgirls from Bethnal Green, London, girls who seemed as unassuming and ordinary as any other, left the UK to join Daesh (commonly known as ISIS). One of…
Florida is considering outlawing conversations about periods before sixth grade
Republican state representative Stan McClain’s proposal, which has the support of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, would forbid students up to the sixth grade from having conversations about menstruation. A draught…
Welcome to the ‘boys club’: The low down on the Casey Review
Casey Review A damning review shows that the Metropolitan Police has failed women and children, with racism, misogyny, and homophobia at the core of the organisation. One of the most…
Editors Letter: Comeback Edition
I’m so excited to announce that The New Feminist is back. Firstly, I’d like to say thank you so much to my team because I couldn’t have done it without…
The best LGBTQ+ content creators on TikTok
It’s no secret that good LGBTQ+ representation in the media is severely lacking. Of course, representation has been growing more over recent years but it can certainly always be better.…
International Women’s Day 2023: the STEM innovation revolution
Happy International Women’s Day 2023. Every year on the 8th of March the world recognises the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women across the globe. We celebrate women…
Georgia Harrison’s win: A timeline takedown
Who is Georgia Harrison? From Day 1, Georgia Harrison found herself settling in quite well on the hit reality dating show, Love Island. Although her time in the villa came…
Why are men so pressed about Shakira and Miley Cyrus?
Shakira has become the first artist of 2023 to have more than one song sit at the top of Spotify’s Global Top Songs Chart, a chart that records the most…
Has Beyoncé brought disco back?
Since Beyoncé announced the release of her new album Renaissance back in June many of her fans around have been counting down the days until the album dropped. In a…
Forcing women into STEM won’t erase sexism
When I thought we were past bringing down other women bossing it in a man-led dynasty, another woman has to turn around and surrender to her internalised misogyny (or just…
“She can do anything she wants” – the siblings fighting for Kuwaiti women’s rights
In 2009, Saud Al Mutawa, a then 23-year-old Architecture student from Kuwait University, took on a challenging and honourable task for his graduation project, with the help of his sister…
How to be a good ally in Queer spaces
As Pride month draws to a close it is a time to reflect on why Pride itself is important. It is a time for the LGBTQ+ community to assert ourselves…
Roe reversal: living in a dystopia
Following the death of Supreme Court swing vote Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the same thought rested heavy on many young women in the Western world: ‘They’re going to ban abortion’. On…
Roe v Wade: oppressed not silenced
“Don’t agonize. Organize,” wrote journalist and feminist leader Gloria Steinem on Twitter. Last Friday 24 June 2022, a shocking United States Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the landmark legal ruling…
Roe v Wade overturned: what you need to know
The Supreme Court of the United States of America overturned the rule that had allowed women to access safe abortions in the country for almost half a century. The decision…
LGBTQ+ myths and misconceptions debunked
Happy Pride Month! In order to properly support anyone LGBTQ+ in your life or simply to learn more about the community, we are here to debunk a few common LGBTQ+…
Honour killing 3: Legal system and police play key roles
Mona Heydari, Saba Qaiser, Sarbjit Kaur Athwal, Romina Ashrafi, Shafilea Ahmed, Banaz Mahmod and many more victims faced the horrific honour-based violence that led to their demise. An Honour Based…
The radical and dirty history of Pride
At The New Feminist we are celebrating Pride at its origins, as a protest. This article is the first of a collection with this theme. Every year, in June and…
The Queen is a feminist role model
I’m a 26-year-old woman, living in London and still working out my place in society. I don’t know at what age you’re supposed to know what your dream job is,…
Honour Killing 2: A hushed up but popular type of femicide
Femicide and all sorts of abuses are imposed on women by the patriarchal system everywhere, but it can be even harsher in some societies. Last week on TNF, Iranian Mona…
Review: Childhood Unlimited – Parenting Beyond the Gender Bias by Virginia Mendez
Firstly, I think it’s important to say that when I picked up Virginia Mendez’s book ‘Childhood Unlimited: Parenting Beyond the Gender Bias’ I didn’t think I would find it that…
“I had to flee war in Iraq and felt like an imposter ever since”
Dhuha Al-Zaidi was only five when she and her family had to leave her beloved home and seek refuge in the same country that had invaded her homeland in the…
Honour Killing 1: Mona Heydari’s viral femicide shows patriarchy horror
It is incomprehensible when your own family drags you straight to a gruesome death because priorities are focussed on your husband’s alleged honour. Back in early February 2022, social media…
Support on Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia
For this year’s Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia, the TNF team share snippets of our experiences and ways that we combat discrimination.
The escalation of anti-trans legislations in the US
Only a few months into 2022 and already trans and non-binary rights are at risk. Republican legislators in Arizona, Alabama, Indiana, Kentucky, Oklahoma, New Hampshire and South Dakota have all…
Roe v Wade: the right women are begging to be left alone
Women and feminists everywhere have been left outraged over the last week by the document from the United States of America (USA) Supreme Court, anonymously leaked by the media outlet…
Rising cost of living: How comes we’re the ones to foot the bill?
In yet another predictable move by the UK government, the cost of living is set to soar- threatening the poorest of society. National insurance, rent, council tax, energy prices, food…
New year, same old hijab discrimination – what is feminism doing?
Feminism is being – rightfully – called out on social media. “Western feminists” raise their voices for Muslim women living under oppressive leadership. They celebrate and applaud Saudi Arabia for…
“His words no longer scare me. They embolden me.”
Trigger Warning* The following contains themes and descriptions of rape and sexual assault Adam Saraswati Rawlings was only sixteen when a stranger raped him in broad daylight in a back alley…
US Supreme Court may rule a half-century step back for women’s rights
“Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness” are some of the words etched into history through the United States of America (USA) Declaration of Independence. With them came a promise…
Celebrate Lesbian Visibility Week with TNF and Nonchalant Mag
This Lesbian Visibility Week, we had the pleasure of talking to the founder of Nonchalant Magazine, a magazine for queer women and allies.
Judge Jackson is the first black woman in the US Supreme Court
Ketanji Brown Jackson is the 116th Associate Justice of the United States (US) Supreme Court. Confirmed on the 7 April 2022 after a month and a half of hearings, she…
Dear Killing Eve, queer people deserve happy endings too
Killing Eve first came to our screens back in 2018. The show came to its highly anticipated close on Monday and, *massive spoilers ahead*, it disappointed fans massively.
What to watch this Earth Day
Earth Day is a chance for us all reflect on what we can do to reduce our impact on the planet, educate ourselves on climate change and just generally send…
The voice of the millennium resists being silent
Dubbed The Voice of the Millennium by the BBC in 1999, Brazilian singer Elza Soares passed away on 20 January 2022 at the age of 91. This 22 April, her…
The New Feminist’s Earth Day reading list
Looking to be a bit more proactive than just tweeting #EarthDay today? We’ve got you! Take a look through our TNF Earth Day reading list! What to watch this Earth…
How to be sustainable on a budget
It’s 2022 and alongside battling the patriarchy and pushing back against misogyny, we’re also dealing with climate change. Rapidly rising planet temperatures, heat waves, droughts, rising sea levels, and extreme…
“We are moving backwards” – a Brazilian farmer’s fight for equal rights
According to a 2016 report by Oxfam, 88% of Brazilian rural properties are owned by men. However, the majority of the rural workforce is made up of women. TNF interviewed…
Why the 2000s was a Misogynistic Wasteland
In the 1980s women joined the workforce at a rapid rate, challenging the expectations set in post-war Western culture that women had done their part and now it was time…
Hundreds Stand in Protest for Child Q
The Met police have faced further scrutiny from the public after forcibly strip-searching a 15-year-old girl in Hackney, London (2020). Child Q was suspected to be in possession of cannabis…
A guide to sexting: is it possible to have safe sex online?
According to Clue and Kinsey’s 2017 international sex survey, 67% of adults have engaged in sexting. In spite of that, sexual relations through the phone remains taboo. If you’ve ever…
The top red flags to avoid on dating apps
It’s 2022 gals, and as a newly single hottie I figured I would get myself back on the dating apps. After a 2 year hiatus I’ve come back with a…
Introducing Ellen DeGenerate this Trans Day of Visibility
As a magazine that celebrates the LGBTQ+ community in all of its shades, we are so excited to introduce our new guest blogger, Ellen DeGenerate here in her first article…
Will Smith hit Chris Rock and then won an Oscar, here’s why its toxic masculinity at its finest
Most people in the UK woke up to the news that beloved Fresh Prince of Bel-Air star Will Smith had finally won an Oscar for best actor for his role…
Celebrating International Muslim Women’s Day at TNF
“Muslim Women’s Day is a call to action to… centre Muslim women’s voices for the day, to empower us, to flood the Internet with new, diverse, positive stories and Muslim…
Anti-LGBTQIA+ bills in the USA make shockwaves within the community
Many American states are stepping forward to push an anti-trans and anti-LGBTQIA+ agenda in the country. In the first two weeks of March 2022, eleven states moved negative bills. The…
Spiked and they couldn’t care less
On the night of Friday 18th February, Tiger and Beau found themselves in a situation which would be many girls’ worst nightmare: one of them had been spiked and left…
Gracie Spinks: Why stalking is slipping under the radar
*Trigger Warning: references to extreme violence and sexual harassment throughout* In June 2021, 23-year-old Gracie Spinks was murdered in Duckmanton, Derbyshire by an ex-manager. The perpetrator, Michael Sellers, a 35-year…
In conversation with Jude Kelly CBE, Founder of the Women of the World festival
“The world of the imagination is absolutely essential to have a sense of hope for a world that we haven’t yet experienced.” Jude Kelly is the CEO and Founder of…
The importance of ovarian cancer awareness
Ovarian cancer is the seventh most common cancer in women, with the highest mortality rate. It is the 18th most common cancer overall, with close to 300,000 new diagnoses each…
A year on from the death of Sarah Everard – has anything changed?
On Thursday 3rd March, Parliament Square looks exactly how you’d expect it to. Tourists clicking cameras, men in suits huffing past with a coffee cup in hand and an undeniably…
Keep celebrating LGBTQ+ history: the misunderstood lives of swipe-right culture
It’s not every day you walk into a theatre and are seated around a toilet seat, but here we are. Blowhole is the latest show that was performed in Soho…
Marielle Franco: killed for fighting for human rights
She was born in the favela da Maré, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. She was black, she was bisexual. She dared to get into politics to fight for human, women,…
Editor’s Letter: #BreakTheBias
We need International Women’s Day now more than ever. As well as the daily battles for gender equality in every community across the world, we’re seeing the giant, terrifying issues…
War in Ukraine: Renewed solidarity this Women’s Day
A new International Women’s Day, another war. As the conflict continues in Ukraine, the world watches, protests and reacts intently. An estimated one million and seven hundred thousand Ukrainian civilians…
Celebrating International Women’s Day with Mayim Bialik
“I am so proud to exist among young women, even though their feminism doesn’t necessarily look like mine. It’s so important to be part of a larger movement.” If this…
Stop giving us advice, give men education
Every three days, a woman is murdered by a man. As many as 93 per cent of women say they have been subjected to sexual assault. For centuries, women have…
If you’re homeless, just buy a house – duh
Yet again, Kirstie Allsopp has found herself in hot water. This time making a series of insensitive comments about millennials and their inability to enter the housing market. In a…
First lady of Iceland: “Gender equality is not a ‘women’s issue’”
For more than a decade, Iceland has been at the forefront of the fight for gender equality. TNF’s Valeria Camerino spoke to the first lady of Iceland Eliza Reid about…
‘Million Women Rise’ shouts “enough is enough”
“One woman, one body, one song, one love” hundreds of women and girls had sung together on the afternoon of 5 March 2022 in London. Gathered by the Million Women…
Editor’s Letter: LGBTQ+ History Month Edition
In incredibly uncertain and unsettling times, we could all do with a little rainbow in our lives. February marked LGBT History Month, and as it is deeply woven with feminist…
Africans in Ukraine barred from safe passage to Poland: How can we help?
On 24 February 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a military operation in Ukraine. Ukrainians began fleeing as Russian missiles exploded across the country. G7 leaders and the world at…
For the love of pocket equality
I’ve got 100 problems and useful-sized pockets would probably solve about 99 of them. Why does it seem that we must be punished through a disturbing lack of handy friends…
Doctors- They’re a pain in the cervix!
Once again, in the never-ending debate of women’s rights and healthcare, the notorious subject of cervixes has reared its ugly head. Now, more so than ever, women are being gaslit…
Why intersectional feminism must include LGBTQ+ people
As representation of LGBTQ+ people in the media continues to grow, there has been an explosion of queer content across social media in the form of queer booktok. Booktstagrammers (the…
The LGBTQ+ bookshop in London helping people all around the world
Nestled on Marchmont Street in King’s Cross, defiantly sits a gay bookshop. It’s pretty hard to miss, or even to assume it’s an average, privileged male literature filled den. For…
How to work through friendship breakups
As we start a new year, many people take this as an opportunity to try a new beginning. Whether it’s finally starting that fitness regime that’s haunted you throughout Christmas,…
The new network dedicated to women athletes
‘Fast Studios’ have just announced plans for ‘Women’s Sports Network’, and this could have an enormous positive impact on the way women watch sports. On top of that, it may…
How We’re Allies of the LGBTQ+ Community
I’m an ally to the community by acknowledging we are not a monolith. The LGBTQ+ Community is diverse, and the ways we express and experience our identities are very individual.…
A Love Letter to Lizzo and Twerking: “Because Black Women are Undeniable”
In August 2021 singer, rapper, songwriter and flutist Lizzo delivered a TED talk entitled ‘The Black history of twerking – and how it taught me self-love’. Lizzo’s rise to fame…
The Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women movement- Be an Ally!
Indigenous women are murdered and or sexually assaulted at a rate 10 times the national average but due to spotty data and media bias, no one truly knows the real…
It’s time to end the pain gap
TW: This article has references to instances of violence and sexual assault which you may find disturbing. Since the pandemic’s inception, an estimated 736 million women have been subjected to…
Why you should use this ‘cuffing season’ to date yourself
When the temperature drops, so do serotonin levels. And so the need for some warmth and a mood boost welcomes the annual “cuffing season”. Cuffing season is the period between…
Meet Val Qaeda, Manchester’s Premier Muslim Drag Queen
There are few people in my own community of queer people that I admire more than Val Qaeda. She is Manchester’s premier Muslim drag queen and somebody that I truly…
“False climate solutions can harm us more”, says Ruth Miller
Łchav’aya K’isen is an indigenous Dena’ina woman from Bristol Bay, Alaska (United States). Known as Ruth Miller outside of her Curyung tribe community, a conviction for climate justice runs deep…
The conviction of Ghislaine Maxwell: A hearing of the silenced?
“No matter who you are, no matter what kinds of circles you travel in, no matter how much money you have, no matter how many years have passed since the…
How to help someone who has experienced sexual assault
Sexual assault and sexual violence victims deal with a tremendous amount of trauma that they may never fully recover from. They are likely to be in need of a strong…
My journey with PrEP: How to have better HIV awareness
20 years ago at the tail-end of the HIV/AIDs epidemic, the virus was still for most people a death sentence. Largely due to a lethargic response from governments, such as…
Meet Radclyffe Hall: the radical lesbian whose books were burned
The Crufts Dog Show, February 1923. A figure named John, with short hair, trousers, a waistcoat, and a Panama hat steps out from their car. They are accompanied by their…
Pakistan revokes controversial clause on chemical castration from its latest law against rape
As Pakistan tries to reduce its percentage of rape, a new law was passed on 17 November 2021. Whilst it took a year for the bill to pass, the law…
How to improve your health and wellbeing in 2022
As we are hit with a new year, a lot of us are overwhelmed with trying to keep up with all of those resolutions, especially ones to do with improving…
Dead Queer: LGBTQ+ History Through a Vampiric Lens
It’s Winter, and it’s officially spooky season. Of course, every day can be Halloween, but in the past year or so, there has been a resurgence of one scary icon…
Dear Educators, do your part to foster an inclusive environment by using correct pronouns
As a progressive society, I am happy to say we have become more understanding and appreciative of the various gender identities of those around us. However, there is so much…
Chile’s president-elected marks a turning point for feminism in Chile
Less than a month after the Chilean Congress had passed a law to legalise same-sex marriage, on 7 December 2021, the country has found itself on the cusp of a…
“You’re pretty for a Black girl” – the reality of your casual racism on the lives of Black women
As we enter a new year, many of us are reflecting on the one we’ve left behind – its highs and lows, triumphs and losses, the people we’ve been and…
The oblivious privilege of the Insta-famous
Last month, in a podcast with Youtuber ‘The Diary of a CEO’, influencer and Creative Director of popular fast fashion site ‘Pretty Little Thing ‘Molly Mae Hague quite literally stated…
Our top feminists of 2021
Here at The New Feminist we’re all about celebrating the accomplishments of phenomenal women around the world and the many ways they have persevered, flourished, and revolutionised in a world…
Rihanna: Barbados’s 11th national hero and a true QUEEN.
On the 30th November 2021, Barbados severed ties with the monarchy, becoming the world’s newest Republic. On this historical day, the Barbadian government also named their 11th National Hero. As…
New year, no need for a new you
It’s that time of year again where we look forward to waving farewell to a rocky 2021 and anticipate a fresh start as 2022 is only around the corner. This…
The feminist’s guide to a last-minute eco-friendly Christmas
Christmas is just around the corner, a season for joy, laughter, togetherness…and a huge amount of waste. According to the GWP Group, we produce 30% more packaging at Christmas than…
It’s the most patriarchal time of year
There’ll be children all screaming and mums will be weeping while cooking the foooood, it’s the most patriarchal time of the year! ? You could be forgiven for thinking that Christmas…
How Bridgerton made corsets a feminist fashion
It has been long since the days of women wearing corsets every day, donning the newly invented brasserie shortly after the women won the right to vote. For years, people…
10 Progressive influencers you need in your life
In a world where Instagram influencers are in huge abundance, we can easily access so much talent. From makeup influencers to eco-activists, there are so many interesting accounts that may…
Måneskin: Blurring the Lines Between Gender Archetypes in the Music Industry
After their graceful rise to victory in this year’s Eurovision competition, Måneskin have captured the world’s attention. The Italian rock ensemble comprises vocalist Damiano David, guitarist Thomas Raggi, bassist Victoria…
Magdalena Andersson moves Sweden forward, the last Nordic country to elect a female Prime Minister
On 24 November 2021, Sweden Parliament kept up history by electing the country’s first female Prime Minister, Magdalena Andersson. Upon her appointment, the 54-year-old Social Democrat was greeted with a…
Movember was about more than fun moustaches: A deep dive into the importance of men’s mental health
November is men’s mental health month. It is Movember. The campaign was created by the charity Movember which addresses men’s mental health and suicide prevention since 2003. According to the…
Vulva la revolution! How feminist eyewear brand Polette isn’t censoring their newest collection
“We can propose affordability and fashion, so… you can be who you want.” Unlike many eyewear brands, Polette has pushed the limits of the eyecare industry by innovating examinations, price…
“She lived in terror. Even when he would reassure her that it would not happen again.”
Trigger Warning* The following contains themes and descriptions of domestic assault and death. Zlata Mihailiuk, a Ukrainian carer who lived in Italy since 2009, died in her home on the…
This year’s ‘International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women’ faces a pandemic
Recognised as both a public health issue and a human rights violation, violence against women and girls (VAWG) physically and mentally affects at least one in every three women everywhere…
She Changes Climate: Meet the women fighting for a 50:50 gender balance in climate discussions
“I would not be here if it was not for my daughter,” Antoinette Vermilye jokingly confessed near the beginning of this interview. I could see Bianca Pitt smiling knowingly from…
Why women must be ‘Mo-Sistas’ this and every Movember
Founded in 2003, Movember is a movement advocating for men’s health, raising awareness and funds on a global scale. During the month of November, countless men across the globe grow…
Exposing Exeter: The rise of pro-life student societies
The University of Exeter has been thrown into a flurry of negative media coverage after their pro-life and anti-abortion society sparked controversy. The group, who call themselves ‘Exeter Students for…
Bills in the Brazilian parliament threaten women and LGBTQIA+’s rights
Seventy-four new bills that threaten women and LGBT+’s rights have been submitted to the Brazilian parliament since 2019. These are only the ones considered highly relevant by the Brazilian feminist…
The lessons British schools teach queer people about themselves
Secondary school is a tough time for everyone, it’s when our bodies start to change, romantic thoughts can begin, and when we start to learn a lot about the person…
Is it time for Drag Race to slow down?
In 2009 the world was first exposed to RuPaul’s Drag Race on the small queer TV channel, Logo. The first season of the show introduced many to the world of…
Four young female climate activists warn of ‘code red for earth’ in their viral emergency appeal
As the 26th United Nations Climate Conference (COP26) was about to start in Glasgow this week, four strong female climate activists have written an emergency appeal calling world leaders to…
Why it’s so hard to find plus-size, ethical AND affordable clothing and where to find it
Finding ethical plus-sized brands can be a difficult task, but finding plus-size, ethical brands which are cheap is practically impossible. Brands that do offer cheap clothes are often fast fashion…
How the pandemic changed my life as a single mother
No one could have ever imagined that the Covid-19 pandemic would last and have such a devastating impact on families, communities, the NHS, businesses, and schools. As the deadly virus…
Climate change is an emergency for us all, but it will be worse for women and here’s why
Agreements made at the 26th United Nations Climate Conference (COP26) will impact all our futures. For women, indigenous peoples and non-binary and transgender women, the stakes are disproportionately higher at…
Trick or Treat? Is #WitchTok feminist or cultural appropriation?
It’s no secret that TikTok has been one of the mainstays for millennials and gen z throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, coming just at the right time to coincide with all…
Toxic personal care products are harming women of colour
Speaking on the possible health risks associated with cosmetics, Assistant Professor of Environmental and Occupational Health at the George Washington University Milken Issue School of Public Health, Ami R. Zota…
When your first love is a bad love
“Who was your first love?” I’m at a coffee shop with a new friend. I get nervous. Shifting from sips of coffee to hefty gulps, I lick tiny beads of…
Meet ‘Melanin Skate Gals n Pals’ – the Diverse Skating Community That Empowers Its Members
It is no surprise that skateboarding has become increasingly popular in the UK, with over 50,000 people participating in the sport this year alone. Sure, we automatically think of sweaty…
Editor’s Letter: October 2021
Where to begin? It’s Black History Month, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, pro-choice protests continue all across the US, Wayne Couzens has been sentenced to life, we lost another beautiful soul,…
Mexico decriminalises abortion and changes the rights of sixty-four million women
Criminalising abortion is now unconstitutional in Mexico. The country’s Supreme Court ruled this unanimously on the last 7 September. It is an astronomical win for women rights activists in Mexico…
Why sexist dress codes in sport need to stop
The clothes that women, most prevalently, famous women choose to wear often fall victim to public scrutiny. You only have to read a handful of articles following a high-profile celebrity…
The LGBTQ+ Rainbow Explained
Written by Adam Saraswati-Rawlings and Tammara Lesko The LGBT+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender +) acronym covers a wide range of identities, and it is spoken about widely in the media…
The New Feminist’s Guide to Dating Yourself
As cuffing season approaches and everyone starts coupling up, there can be a lot of pressure to search for a partner. I’ve been the single person that feels like the…
Sabina Nessa: Where is her justice?
On the 3rd of March 2021 Sarah Everard, a 33-year-old Caucasian woman, disappeared whilst walking home in South London. Following the event, a surge of social media interest began to…
5 Ways to contact help in unsafe public situations
With the latest easing of restrictions and opening up of the country, we’re slowly returning to normal life. Unfortunately, with the excitement of going out again, comes the fear and…
#HolaDares: The girl who is tackling anxiety one dare at a time
“I have always been a confident person. I was brought up to believe in myself, to stray away from the norm and embrace my differences.” 22-year-old, Olamide (also known as…
Emma Raducanu: The influence, the fame and the toxicity of the media gaze
With her immense talent, drive, and determination, Emma Raducanu has become a household name practically overnight. I wouldn’t label myself as the biggest tennis fan in the world, but even…
“You’ll be better around children once you have your own”
After months of living alone in London due to lockdown restrictions, I finally decided to pay a visit to my family home. And perfect timing too, my elder sister had…
The Met Gala 2021: How women are changing politics one dress at a time
The Met Gala, an exclusive, annual event that marks the opening of the Metropolitan Museum of Art Fashion exhibit in New York. If your name is on the invite list,…
Why we’re no longer using the term ‘Womxn’.
‘Womxn.’ This term emerged in recent years as an attempt by intersectional feminism to create a phrase that would be inclusive of trans women and non-binary individuals, as well as…
Solar Power review: The solstice-powered soundtrack of the summer
There was a lot of pressure on Lorde to create a spectacular third album after her debut album, Pure Heroine (she released at the youthful age of 16), was critically…
Islam loves and respects women, extremism doesn’t – learn the difference
Over the last few months, the coverage of the hijab in international news has been mentally and emotionally crushing for Muslim women across the globe. We feel as though our…
Why Dolly Parton is the original gay icon
In 1967 the country music industry was introduced to the gentle melodic voice of Dolly Parton for the first time. This came in the form of her debut album ‘Hello,…
An end of an era for misogyny in rap? Unmasking Hip-Hop’s bare, bold and brazy reinvention
Lil Nas X (real name, Montero Lamar Hill) recently released his provocative music video for his new track, “Industry Baby”, and was instantly lambasted on social media for his overtly…
Review: My Hair is Pink Under this Veil by Rabina Khan
Sometimes I read a book and I know almost immediately that I’m going to be recommending it to everybody for years after. ‘My Hair is Pink Under This Veil’ was…
Cycling is yet another sport made for men
A recent article done by The Sunday Times details how cycling is a sport that is currently designed for men. It points out how women are often ignored by manufacturers…
Editor’s Letter: TNF Bookshelf Special Edition
As you’re signed up to our mailing list I’m sure that you have come to understand what The New Feminist is all about – educating and empowering. We want to…
What is Vaginismus and why is it so overlooked?
When I was a kid, I remember watching an episode of True Life entitled ‘I Can’t Have Sex.’ The episode followed three women who struggled to find reasons why sex…
Women too must face their own engagement in internalised misogyny
Trigger Warning: The following contains descriptions of sexual assault and rape. October 2020: Less than a year ago, a court in Peru acquitted an accused rapist because the victim’s red,…
Reflecting on the gender discrimination in the Tokyo Olympics
A wave of penalizations and disqualifications sparked discussions about the way in which black female athletes are treated in sports. This year, six black women were considered ineligible to compete…
How internal misogyny has altered everyone’s perception of Taylor Swift
Picture this, the year is 2012; ‘We are never getting back together’ is playing on the radio, galaxy print leggings are the height of fashion, moustache prints are on EVERYTHING,…
Swimwear brands will never be fully inclusive until they include modesty
Sports Illustrated held its 2021 fashion show on 10 July and is being praised as the brand’s most inclusive show yet. The brand is one of the loyal names that…
Diella Valla: The up-and-coming feminist artist who uses her art to empower women
Ever since Diella Valla was a child, she would doodle, taking the fascination in seeing different paintings, silhouettes and analysing different details in her grandfather’s paintings. Diella, now grown up…
Reflecting on the career-driven Love Islanders who are unlucky in love
Love it, loathe it, or simply love to loathe it, Love Island is back. A summer full of ‘grafting’, zealous exclamations when the infamous texts and all the eggs in…
Over-the-counter contractive pills to be offered without prescription
For the first time, women will now be able to buy certain progestogen-only oral contraceptive pills (POPs) from pharmacies without a medical prescription in the UK after the announcement from…
Black Mums Matter: Why black women are five times more likely to die in childbirth
The narrative of British motherhood has neglected the majority of black mothers across the UK. A recent enquiry into UK maternal deaths has found that black women are five times…
All the ‘Rumors’ are True: This Song is a Feminist Anthem
Last week everyone’s favourite beacon of positivity, Lizzo, teamed up with Cardi B and released their new song, which could potentially be the feminist anthem of the year. Both Lizzo…
Billie Eilish’s Happier Than Ever review: Capturing those nostalgic first steps into adulthood
Back in 2019, Billie Eilish took the world by storm with her breakout debut studio album, When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go? which led to Eilish controversially…
Why Love Islander Georgia Townend is the feminist icon we never knew we needed
After Chloe Burrows was chosen by Hugo Hammond in *that* recoupling, Georgia Townend was dumped from the Island, making her time in the Love Island villa one of the shortest…
Why are lesbians still getting sexualised?
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, there are certain things you quickly grow very tired of hearing. As a lesbian, these often come from cisgender straight men who make disgusting and overtly sexual remarks. I can’t count the number of times…
Women’s charity founder: “Return of Taliban will leave women vulnerable to traffickers”
The abrupt withdrawal of Western troops from Afghanistan, which resulted in the Taliban regaining control of the country after two decades, is inevitably having repercussions on the rights of women…
Worldwide vaccination against Covid-19 overcomes gender inequalities
For every 10 women vaccinated against Covid-19 around the world, there are 9 men. The COVID-19 Sex-Disaggregated Data Tracker shows that gender gaps have been overcome when we consider immunisation…
Fast-fashion brand ‘Shein’ accused of stealing from Black designers
The brand Shein has exploded in recent years. Founded in 2008, it has since become a favourite of many fashion bloggers, especially on Instagram and TikTok. Shein itself states that…
Editor’s Letter – Aug 21
Growing up, I always felt like I was one step behind everyone else. I was behind at school as a kid, behind with trends as a teenager, and I was…
Becky Lynch: The man and the icon
Wrestling hasn’t always been the most feminist sport in history, but women are continuing to gain prominence in the sport. Although this change hasn’t been particular to one company, but…
5 Common misconceptions about Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is an incredible and extraordinary experience. When you actually think about it, it is quite unbelievable that a woman’s body produces food for her baby naturally. August 1 st…
Is Bollywood perpetuating sexism?
It may shock you to know that India, and not the United States, produces more films in a year than any other country in the world. The Indian cinema industry…
Sympathy for the ‘Horse Girl’: What young girls can take away from horse movies
If you’ve been on the internet for a long time, you are probably aware of the ‘horse girl’ myth. For a more definitive definition, Urban Dictionary states that a horse…
EU Hijab Ban: The greatest tragedy is for those who are never able to have a choice, so we make the choice because it is ours to make
The EU Court of Justice (CJEU) recently ruled on the cases brought by two Muslim women in Germany who were suspended from their jobs for wearing a headscarf or hijab. This ruling…
Homophobia does not justify your racism
Back in May of this year once again tensions rose and came to a head between the nations of Israel and Palestine, and was subject to much discussion online here…
Let’s talk about “feminised” jobs and how it impacts women
Stepping into a day-care reveals a commonality of female employees. When delving deeper into these common roles filled by female-assigned or identifying workers, the issue of pay leaves a sour…
Meet Victoria Woodhull: America’s forgotten feminist and the first woman to run for president
Presidential election day, November 1872, a woman sits in a federal jail in New York. She stands accused of printing ‘obscene’ material about an adulterous preacher in a magazine. But…
Why celebrating female athletes is crucial to fighting toxic beauty standards for women
The rise of feminism and the growth of social movements to empower women are inspiring and exhilarating. To be a young woman today is to be rewriting history, creating a…
We need to talk about schools’ dismissal of sexual harassment against young women
Picture this. Opening social media one day, I innocently scrolled through my timeline as usual, skimming over various hot takes of the week. After a normal flurry of news updates,…
Review: Olivia Rodrigo’s album ‘Sour’ reflects the experience of many teenage girls
The launch of Olivia Rodrigo’s album ‘Sour’ in May 2021 received an outstanding response. Perhaps it was the great songwriting or catchy melodies, but it’s most likely because Rodrigo has…
Are beauty practices liberating or oppressive?
Still branded as a typically feminine activity, the beauty industry is heavily branded towards women, whilst often rejected by (cis) heterosexual men. Indeed, some feminists consider modern beauty standards as nothing but…
“I’m breaking the silence on gynaecological violence.”
Trigger Warning: This article contains themes of sexual assault and graphic imagery “I had this test at least a dozen times before, but I don’t remember it hurting so much.…
The complex art form of Burlesque: A peek inside London’s biggest Burlesque community
‘It’s uplifting, it’s joyful, it’s a fuckery of gender, it’s a performative tongue in cheek joke about what it means to be a woman unless you’ve seen it, I think…
Simone Biles: The undeniable G.O.A.T
Simone Biles, the 24-year-old US gymnast, has a long list of accomplishments racked up. From being highly decorated with medals from the World Championship and Rio Olympic Games to having…
Balancing sex and feminism
Historians will agree that gender roles have differed since the beginning of documented time. The most ‘woke’ among us would argue that, in 2021, women remain submissive to a patriarchal…
Studies show a rise in domestic abuse during football seasons
As England reaches the finals of the Euros, we’re reminded of the link between English matches and increased intimate partner domestic violence. Police forces across the UK have seen domestic…
“I get worried that other mum’s judge me”
Hi Kelly, I get incredibly overwhelmed in the school playgroup at pick up. I want to talk to other mums but I don’t know what to say and I’m anxious…
The return of the beauty industry with #OhHelloBeauty campaign
The non-profit, inclusive organisation British Beauty Council has proudly presented the new national campaign Oh Hello Beauty to drive customers back into hair and beauty salons for a robust recovery…
NHS faces criticism for using the phrase ‘pregnant people’
On May 6th 2020, NHS East of England’s Twitter came under some backlash for using “pregnant people” as a form of inclusivity. The use of an inclusive term was met…
Our patriarchal society will not silence women with endometriosis
I feel it’s important to start this piece with a disclaimer. I don’t have endometriosis. I cannot pretend to know what it is like to suffer the hardships of this…
Meet Maharani Indira Devi: India’s royal rebel
On 25 August 1913, a young couple left Paddington registry office in London after a short civil wedding ceremony. The bride was the daughter of the second most powerful ruler…
Women forced to wear face masks during labour
One-fifth of the women in labour are being forced to wear face masks even though it goes against government guidelines. In December 2020, there was a survey done by the…
How dating apps were the gateway to my queerness
Moving down to London in 2017, was a fresh start. I was not a stranger to Tinder, having started my account in college after some peer pressure. Unfortunately, I had…
BBC’s ‘Casualty’ shines a light on the complications of vaginal mesh surgery
Television is a powerful source of education if presented appropriately and with the correct background of research. Soaps in the UK are renowned for covering prominent societal issues, and especially…
Move over, Gilead, the WHO’s in charge now and they’re suggesting we ban alcohol for women
While fans of Hulu’s TV adaptation of Margaret Atwood’s seminal masterpiece ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ eagerly await the fourth season in the UK, suggestions have been made that the world is…
H&M to offer traffic light system on clothes
In offering an eco-ranking traffic light system on their clothes, this is H&M’s latest measure at making their products more environmentally sustainable. H&M have been making some very big steps…
Top 5 anti-chafing products to combat the heat
As we’re heading into the hottest months of the year, I know many are dreading wearing shorts, dresses and skirts in the heat. Women constantly undergo pain for the sake…
Pride Month 2021 events in London that you can actually attend
Looking for ways to celebrate Pride Month? Check out this list of events happening this month celebrating the LGBTQ+ community. Friday, June 18th: Art Exhibition #YouMeUsWe Opening Evening From 6…
Period Panties: Are they worth the hype?
Tired of buying tampons or pads every month? Looking for a zero-waste alternative? Maybe it is time to invest in period panties. After going on the pill about six years…
Why UK feminists should care about new Texas anti-abortion laws
In 2019, when the clock struck midnight on Monday the 21st of October, abortion was legalised in Northern Ireland. London MP’s voted for the legislation that forced Northern Ireland to…
I’m not a bad feminist for listening to the music I like
”You can’t be a feminist and listen to music like this.” I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve been told I am a hypocrite and not a real…