Feminism [1] (noun): "the theory of the political, economic, and social equality of the sexes"; "the organised activity on behalf of women's rights and interests."
Beyond its dictionary definition, feminism is a word that carries a unique (and likely purposeful) meaning for each person sporting the title. To me, being a feminist means striving to empower every woman I encounter — not just the women who look like me [2] — and battling patriarchal nonsense any chance I get.
No matter the meaning it carries for you, there's no denying that feminism has demanded a place in the political and social narrative of 2018. And with movements like #MeToo [3] and #TimesUp [4] gaining momentum across the world, now is the perfect time to explore the history of feminism (and let loose in a pink haven!). London just happens to be full of spots for doing both.
Here's a look at five stops for every feminist — regardless of colour, culture, creed, or sexual orientation — to make on their next trip to the Big Smoke.
The Museum of London
In celebration of a century of women's suffrage in the UK (#VotesForWomen), the Museum of London is paying homage with a special display to the dauntless, bold, and badass ladies who fought to secure this right. From 2 Feb. 2018 to 9 Jan. 2019, you can dive into the history of the feminist movement and explore the stories of women like Emmeline Pankhurst, who fought tirelessly to pass the 1918 Representation of the People Act. Admission is free, and the collections and events featured will shift and change throughout the year, so there will always be something new to see. Visit the Museum of London [5]'s website for more information on what's to come.
PS: If suffragette-celebrating exhibitions are up your alley, be sure to check out Rebel Women [6] at the National Portrait Gallery as well!
150 London Wall, EC2Y 5HN
The Book Club
Most know this Shoreditch spot for its weekend brunches and wild dance floor, but The Book Club also plays host to events that champion intersectional feminism, promote body positivity, and even zero in on closing the orgasm gap (oh yeah, that's a thing). Scour TBC's calendar [7] for all of the details on upcoming events, from Gal-dem storytelling: Nostalgia [8] (a night of storytelling led by Gal-dem [9], "a magazine and creative collective comprised of over 70 women and non-binary people of colour") to dance parties honouring Queen Bey [10].
100-106 Leonard St, EC2A 4RH
SpiceUp, the Spice Girls Exhibition
While we collectively cross our fingers that the Spice Girls [11] come through with a reunion tour (stop toying with us, Posh Spice [12]! Thank you very much), let's all rejoice in the fact that a Spice Girls exhibition [13] is absolutely making its way to London this Summer. From 28 July until 20 Aug., Alan Smith-Allison is taking his extensive collection of Spice Girls costumes and memorabilia to the British Design Centre in Angel, with other Spicy activities planned throughout London — from dance classes to bus tours.
It's a must visit for any woman who loves girl power and '90s pop music (which I'm hoping is, um, every female-identifying member of the human race). Tickets [14] start at £5 for students and are sure to sell out, so snag 'em in advance.
52 Upper St, N1 0QH
Tonight Josephine
We all need to let loose after a long day battling the patriarchy, don't you think? I agree, and Tonight Josephine [15] is just the place. Named for Joséphine de Beauharnais — the first wife of Napoleon I and an unapologetic, imperial party girl — this Waterloo-based cocktail bar is here to remind guests that well-behaved women rarely make history (seriously, it's got a giant neon sign that says so). The drinks are decadent, the decor Instagram-worthy, and the atmosphere full of fun. Book a girls' night out [16] with your favourite fellow feminists online (and subscribe to Tonight Josephine's newsletter [17] for a free cocktail!).
111 Waterloo Road, SE1 8UL
Velvet Underground Tattoo
If you're looking to get a little ink in the British capital, there's no better spot than Velvet Underground Tattoo [18]. Beyond the tattoo studio's impeccable ratings (it's got a 4.9/5 star rating on Google Reviews [19] and 4/4 star rating by the Tattoo Hygiene Rating Scheme [20]), this Brick Lane institution is also led and staffed entirely by women. The artists at Velvet Underground are experts in crafting bespoke designs, but if you need a little inspiration, here are some feminist tattoo ideas [21] to get you started. Because empowering ink is the best kind.
63 Hanbury St, E1 5JP