Being Thankful

American Thanksgiving is coming up, so I thought I would share all the things I am thankful for. I am incredibly blessed and grateful and that is because I have been fortunate to grow up in an environment that has been so encouraging of my success. I am privileged and that isn't something I take for granted, so I am incredibly thankful for those who have helped me get where I am. It's so important to remember those who have helped us get where we are, so I thought I would take this time to thank a few people who are just amazing.

The Famous 5

Did you know that in Canada women weren't considered persons until 1929? Thanks to these ladies who fought for the right to sit in the Senate in the 1929 Persons Case, I am considered a person in 2016. So much of our history is thanks to these women. For that, I am thankful.

Women in Comedy and Women Writers/Authors/Songwriters

Don't get me wrong, I think there are brilliant male comedians and writers, but women tend to get things that men just can't. They have this whole other kind of insight that men cannot duplicate because men have never experienced it. I can relate to female comedians and writers, which makes me want to watch what they are doing. I am thankful for the women who make me laugh, cry, and put everything they have on the line.

Women who encourage other women

I know there are a lot more out there, but these are some of my favourites. These women are encouraging of other women, they demonstrate the necessity of women in technology, of women and the acceptance of our bodies, and of the vital importance of gender equality. These are the kinds of people who are encouraging to young women and men. I am thankful that they are around to shine some light.

Women and men who talk about feminism

Again, there are so many more out there, I just thought these people were interesting. They understand the importance of talking about gender equality. Or the importance of not objectifying women on screen.

My Mentors

I've had a great deal of incredible mentors over the years. People who have taken the time to teach me are some of the people I truly cherish. I may not have always understood or accepted the education, but I do now and that's all that matters. Thank you for always being there and for guiding me.

I know this wasn't what you were expecting when you opened this. You may be mad or happy or indifferent, you may have also x-ed out when you saw the first item. I just think it's important to thank the people who have shaped our lives. To thank the women who gave us the opportunities to be able to be considered persons. I know it's been a long time and a lot of you think "we're equal, why are we talking about this", but the truth is, we have a long way to go and we need to keep talking about it.

We live in a very privileged world where we can go to school, buy houses, and live freely. I can understand if some of us just don't think theres any work to do. We live our lives and we think everything is great, but eventually you won't get that promotion or you will be discriminated agains't. Finally, something clicks and you understand why women are still fighting for equality, my feminism is such a big deal, why we need to keep talking. Just remember the door is never closed and you are always welcome.

Thanks for reading,

Samantha