Who they are :
B-Word Worldwide is a nonprofit (501c3), independent, feminist media organization best known for publishing Bitch: Feminist Response to Pop Culture, a print magazine devoted to feminist analysis and media criticism. Bitch features critiques of TV, movies, magazines, advertising, and other elements of pop culture. We also interview feminist pop culture makers, review new books and music, and lots more. We're in the process of evolving into a multimedia organization, starting with this very website.
For as long as we've been publishing Bitch, there's one question that gets asked over and over. And over. "Why did you choose that word as the name of your magazine?" While we're aware that our title is off-putting to some people, we think it's worth it. And here's why.
The writer Rebecca West, back in the day, said, "People call me a feminist whenever I express sentiments that differentiate me from a doormat." We'd argue that the word "bitch" is usually deployed for the same purpose. When it's being used as an insult, "bitch" is an epithet hurled at women who speak their minds, who have opinions and don't shy away from expressing them, and who don't sit by and smile uncomfortably if they're bothered or offended. If being an outspoken woman means being a bitch, we'll take that as a compliment, thanks.
We know that not everyone's down with the term. Believe us, we've heard all about it. But we stand firm in our belief that if we choose to take the word as a compliment, it loses its power to hurt us. And if we can get people thinking about what they're saying and why when they use the word, that's even better.
And last, but certainly not least, "bitch" describes all at once who we are when we speak up, what it is we're too worked up over to be quiet about, and the act of making ourselves heard.
Our commentary:
This magazine that also offers a online magazine and podcasts, is a space that offers a modern perspective of feminism that is inclusive of all races, unlike pre-modern feminism. And not only do they advocate for the equal treatment of womyn everywhere but they also discuss ideas of fate-hate, and the like. Bitch examines popular culture and not always in a condescending, better than thou tone. They allow for the many different perspectives that feminists have to flourish and be heard. Here's to you Bitch Magazine for teaching so many of us, and listening to us also.
Check out Bitch Magazine on our link list!
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