Shania Twain has stated that she does not identify as a feminist, asserting that “vulnerable men need just as much protection as vulnerable women.” The 60-year-old singer, known for empowering anthems like Man! I Feel Like A Woman! and That Don’t Impress Me Much, has often been viewed as a feminist icon. However, in a recent interview with The Times, she clarified her position.
Twain’s Perspective on Feminism
“I don’t see myself as a feminist,” Twain told the newspaper. “I see myself as a very independent thinker and not necessarily because I’m a woman.” She acknowledged that she holds many feminist viewpoints, particularly regarding the protection of vulnerable women, but struggles with the label itself.
When asked why she finds the term difficult, she explained: “I just feel that I’m strong as a person. It’s like saying, ‘You look great for your age.’ I’m not strong for a woman. I’m not independent for a woman. I’m not self-sufficient for a woman. I just am a woman.”
Men Need Protection Too
Twain emphasized that the issue extends beyond gender. “And this falls on boys too. It’s like, ‘Oh, the boy needs less protection than the girl because he’s a boy.’ That is so not true and it’s not fair. Vulnerable men need just as much protection as vulnerable women.”
Following the interview, the country pop singer wrote to The Times to clarify her remarks. She described the word “feminist” as “tricky” due to the negativity and confusion surrounding it during her upbringing. “Even though when I look at the values and morals of what a feminist is, of course I align with them,” she added.
Background on Feminism
According to the United Nations, feminism is defined as the “belief that everyone, regardless of gender, should have equal rights and opportunities.”
Twain’s Current Tour and Career
Twain is currently opening for Harry Styles during his Together Together world tour, including his record-breaking residency at Wembley Stadium in London. The five-time Grammy winner has scored nine UK top 10 singles, including You’re Still The One, From This Moment On, and Don’t Be Stupid. She has also achieved three number one albums: Come On Over (1998), Now (2017), and Queen Of Me (2023). In 2024, she performed in the coveted Sunday afternoon legends slot at Glastonbury Festival.
