Feminism

Dear Ijeawele, or a Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions

Name: Dear Ijeawele, or a Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions
Author: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

24 minAudio8 insights

What you'll learn

•How to raise a child with feminist values in a practical and contextual way.
•The importance of shared parenting and rejecting traditional gender roles.
•How language and culture shape gender perceptions and how to critically engage with them.
•The necessity of open, shame-free conversations about sex and relationships.
•To recognize and reject diluted versions of feminism that tolerate inequality.
•How to foster a strong, positive cultural identity alongside critical thinking.
•The value of embracing human complexity and respecting difference.

Who should read this

✓Parents wanting to raise feminist children
✓Educators and caregivers interested in gender equality
✓Readers seeking practical feminist guidance
✓Those interested in African feminist perspectives

About this book

A practical and heartfelt feminist guide offering fifteen suggestions to raise a daughter with equality, confidence, and cultural pride.

Did You Know?

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Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie wrote 'Dear Ijeawele' as a letter to a friend, which later became a published manifesto.

Audio Summary

Section 1

Embracing Full Personhood Beyond Motherhood

3:45

8 Sections

Preview: Embracing Full Personhood Beyond Motherhood

Imagine a mother cradling her newborn, feeling the immense joy and responsibility that comes with bringing a new life into the world. Yet, beyond this beautiful moment lies a profound truth: motherhood, while glorious, must not become the sole definition of a woman’s existence. Your feminist premise should be: I matter equally. Full stop. This is not just a statement but a foundation for raising children who understand their worth and expect equality in every sphere of life.

In many cultures, including the Igbo tradition, women have historically been active agents in society—not confined to the home but thriving as farmers and traders. This legacy reminds us that the so-called 'traditional' roles often cited to limit women are myths selectively used to justify inequality. Imagine telling a young mother that she must stay home because tradition demands it, when in fact, her ancestors were vibrant participants in economic life. Rejecting these limiting narratives is essential to nurturing a full, confident self.

We often hear praise for women who 'do it all,' balancing work, home, and caregiving. But beneath this praise lies a troubling assumption: that care work is inherently women's work. This mindset traps women in an endless cycle of expectations and guilt. True equality means caregiving should be gender-neutral, shared fairly without expectation of superhuman effort from women.

For new mothers, kindness to oneself is crucial. It is okay to ask for help, to learn through trial and error, and to embrace imperfection. The journey of parenting is not about flawless execution but about love and growth. As you nurture your child, nurture yourself as well. This balance models for children that self-worth and care are intertwined and vital.

As we close this reflection on identity and equality, remember: being a full person is the first step in raising a feminist child. It sets the tone for the lessons to come about partnership, roles, and societal expectations. Let us now explore how sharing responsibilities equally shapes a healthier family dynamic.