Exploring the Importance of Feminist Identity in Social Work Education

Abstract

ABSTRACT Feminist identity, which allows those who support feminist ideals to establish themselves as being interested in reducing gender-based oppression, has been connected to increased commitment to collective action. However, feminist stigma and a postfeminist perception may have created ambivalence for many when considering a feminist identity. This conceptual article explores the importance of feminist identity, indicating that, in part, the stigmatization of feminists and a postfeminist standpoint work to prevent feminist activism, and that a social work stance is needed that promotes feminism and feminist identity, especially among social work students. This conceptual article examines feminist identity with a focus on intersectionality; posits that feminist identity is a social work issue; identifies challenges with claiming a feminist identity; and suggests methods for incorporating feminism into social work education. The main findings are methods that social work educators can utilize to increase feminist awareness, including claiming a feminist identity themselves; engaging in rigorous intersectional feminist education; and pushing for a stronger mandate to include content on oppression in social work education whereby students may be better prepared to conceptualize how sexism shapes the lives of the clients they strive to help.