feminist of the week: ailish kimberly johnson

Name: Ailish Kimberly Johnson
Age: 20
Hometown: Herndon, Virginia
Occupation: Point of Sales Associate at a craft store

Describe yourself in one word: Critical.

What is your feminist philosophy?
I believe that women all over the world face sex-based oppression caused by male power, and the only way for women to be considered equals in the world is to liberate them from said oppression and then reconstruct society to balance the power. I also believe that capitalism keeps women subordinate in their oppression, especially in the case of women of colour.

When did you have your feminist awakening?
My mother was herself a feminist, and raised me with her views. I shied away from them for most of my teenage years, only to re-discover them through Tumblr, and although I don’t consider myself one anymore, Riot Grrrl music.

Why is feminism important in today’s world?
Because sex-based oppression is still a thing. With cases like femicide in South East Asia, and FGM all over the world, it is very clear that women are not at all equal. Even here, in the USA, women, especially women of color, face extreme marginalization. Feminism, true intersectional feminism, is not only needed here, but everywhere.

Are there any musical artists that share the same views that you do regarding feminism?
Off the top of my head, AniDiFranco, Tori Amos, Queen Latifah (have you ever heard the song U.N.I.T.Y? It’s a feminist dream!), and X-ray Spex.

What do you hope to change as you enter further into your twenties?
I would like to change the way that younger girls look at feminism. Feminism is not a four letter word, although it may be treated as such. I would also like to write a book on feminist theory, and I hope to find an active feminist scene.