Feminism. A word that has recently been a trending topic on social media and has been at that the top of major headlines, has made it’s way to the top again by making a guest appearance at the 2015 Oscar Awards. Patricia Arquette, who took home the Oscar for ‘Best Actress In A Supporting Role’ for her role in the movie “Boyhood,” made a point to turn her acceptance speech into a cry for wage equality for ALL women. Arquette stated, ‘To every woman who gave birth, to every taxpayer of this nation. It’s our time to have wage equality once and for all in the United States of America.’

Feminism, defined by Merriam-Webster Dictionary, is “the belief that men and women should have equal rights and opportunities” and in today’s world it is a topic that is becoming more relevant to not only women, but men. Patricia Arquette made the entire world go crazy not only with her statements at the Oscars, but when she turned to social media to trend #EqualPay on Twitter. Some of her most patriotic and feminist tweets included:

‘Wage equality will help ALL women of all races in America. It will also help their children and society,’

‘Guess which women are the most negatively effected in wage inequality? Women of color. #Equalpay for ALL women. Women stand together in this.’

‘Women have been basically paying a gender tax for generations’

‘If you are fighting against #EqualPay you are fighting for ALL and especially women of color to make less money than men’

The reaction and praise Arquette is receiving from expressing her stance on equality for women is incredible, and some of the most powerful and influential women in America agree that this was needed. For example, Hillary Clinton comments, “Many women are paid less for the same work, which is why I think we all cheered at Patricia Arquette’s speech at the Oscars because she’s right — it’s time to have wage equality once and for all.” At the Oscars, Meryl Streep and Jennifer Lopez were seen praising and cheering for Patricia as she powerfully took control of the room. While some do support Arquette and the powerful movement; others have been criticizing her speech saying the Oscars was not the right time and place, and are referring to her as “hypocritical“. Those in the media who are refuting her argument are questioning her authority, as she is an actress with a high paying job making more than the majority of Americans. Although some may not agree on the presentation of the Arquette’s stance, the context is what really matters.

As Academy women, the topic of “feminism” is of great importance because at the Academy girls are taught to be women of great strength, independence, faith and integrity. The belief in “equality for all” falls in line with the values of an Academy woman, and so with the influence of Patricia Arquette and her brave decision to take a stance, it shows all women anything is possible; especially for the women at the Academy of the Holy Names.

#EqualPay #YesAllWomen