Recently, I overheard a young girl mention, “My mom said I could participate in any sport except cheerleading because it just involves cheering for the boys.” As a feminist, I understood her sentiment. However, as a former cheerleader, I felt differently. This made me reflect on whether I would support my daughter—or even my son—if they wanted to join a cheerleading squad. The answer was clear: absolutely, yes.
As a feminist and someone who has been a cheerleader, I recognize the ongoing discussion surrounding this topic. During my high school years, I often felt embarrassed about my cheerleading past. I was so insecure that I begged my father not to mention it to my then-boyfriend (now husband), and I even went so far as to hide memorabilia from those days. I didn’t see myself as the “perky cheerleader” type; I wasn’t particularly invested in school spirit, and I often felt that cheering for male athletes didn’t align with my values.
Despite my reservations, I pursued cheerleading because it was a way to engage in extracurricular activities that might help me get into college, especially since my best friend was the captain. Reflecting on it now, I realize that cheerleading was a lot of fun, physically demanding, and instrumental in my college acceptance. Yet, as I delved deeper into women’s studies in college, I began to question whether one could genuinely be both a feminist and a cheerleader.
The answer is a resounding yes. Cheerleading is undeniably a sport, requiring physical prowess and teamwork, just like any other athletic endeavor. It’s crucial to acknowledge that defining feminism in a narrow sense—suggesting that only certain appearances or behaviors qualify one as a feminist—is itself a form of prejudice. Enjoying traditionally feminine activities does not negate one’s commitment to gender equality.
We often forget that feminism encompasses a broad spectrum of identities and choices. One can appreciate a pedicure while advocating for equal pay. We can fight for reproductive rights in any attire we choose, be it a formal dress or casual wear. The essence of who we are isn’t dictated by societal expectations but rather by our core values and actions.
The real challenge lies in the perception that cheerleaders are merely there to support male athletes. I’ve come to realize that all sports are a bit odd when you consider them through a different lens. For example, if aliens were to observe football, they might find the concept of humans trying to advance a ball while engaging in physical tussles perplexing. At least cheerleaders have choreography and rhythm to offer!
That said, there is a prevailing hierarchy within sports that often goes unaddressed. For instance, field hockey players sometimes look down on cheerleaders, believing their activity isn’t a “real” sport. I once attended a gathering where a teacher expressed disappointment that a talented student was choosing cheerleading, as if it were a poor decision. When she jokingly asked if anyone in the room had been a high school cheerleader, I decided to embrace my past instead of deflecting. Upon admitting my former role, I sensed her immediate regret, although it wasn’t intended.
In a world where intellect and cheerleading are often seen as mutually exclusive, it’s time to challenge these stereotypes. Women can be feminists and cheerleaders, hockey players, or even football enthusiasts who enjoy baking. It took me years to embrace a part of my history that I once viewed as shameful, but now I understand that cheerleading is a valuable aspect of my journey.
Ultimately, I am grateful for my cheerleading experience; it has shaped who I am today, and I am content with that.
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Summary
The article explores the complexities of cheerleading through the lens of feminism, revealing that being a cheerleader can coexist with feminist values. It challenges societal perceptions of cheerleading and emphasizes the importance of embracing diverse identities and choices while advocating for equality.