Some people may not be discriminatory at heart, but old habits die hard. Unfortunately, offensive language and implications are cultural habits most people acquire without realizing it. Some of these scenarios are what I like to call Accidental ‘-isms.’ But you have the power to shape your conversations. So here are some of my ideas for confronting your next Accidental ‘-ism.’

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Feminist works garner a spectrum of responses, from life-affirming to life-threatening. Maybe it’s the emotional weight of the material. Maybe it’s the unflattering light we shine on the ugly truths of patriarchy. Either way, feminist pieces get a wide range of comments. We can use them to improve, but they can also be scary. Here are just a few of the commenters you’ll meet as an online feminist.

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As I get older, making new friends within the LGBTQ+ community becomes more difficult. My 30-year-old self rarely seeks out kindred spirits on the dance floor because my body just won’t allow for it. In addition, queer-friendly spaces that aren’t nightclubs are rapidly shutting down due to gentrification. This bothers me because building accountable and…

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I’ve considered myself a feminist for a few years now and I’m only 19. I can tell you first hand that young people are building this movement. I’m proud to be one of them. But as much as I think being a feminist activist at a young age rocks, there are a lot of misconceptions and untold truths around what being a young feminist actually entails.

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As a gay feminist, I’ve had to tell many the straight boy, “Those jokes make me feel uncomfortable. Please stop.” The percussive nature of gay rape jokes can certainly get a laugh, but they also speak to some of our societal attitudes regarding rape and queer sexuality. Here are some answers to the question, “Why do people think gay rape jokes are okay?”

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Person standing at a window, looking out and down, seemingly sad or contemplative

(Trigger Warning: Sexual Assault) There’s no right or wrong way to respond to a sexual assault. But sometimes it’s hard to know what to do next. So here are some things to keep in mind. They’ll help you remember that you know what’s best for yourself, so you get to make your own choices. Read on and treat yourself with the same kindness you would give to others – you deserve nothing less.

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