Why does this blog exist?

This computer web log exists because I want to be a feminist. Or an ally, I guess? No... a feminist.

Because all one needs to do to be a feminist is to support feminism. So says the dictionary. And I do. But not as well as I could, not in the ways that humanity deserves from me.

So what are the steps for a man who wants to become a better feminist?

I Googled it:

Step 1: Shut up. Men have been talking over everyone for centuries, apparently.

OK, I am kind of failing already by starting this blog, I guess. But I mean well. And, really, this blog is not going to be about telling women anything. I don't want to make it all about me and it's not meant to dictate behavior for anyone but me. I just want to keep a record of my journey. I hope that's OK. If not, I am listening.

Step 2: Listen to women. OK, so this is where the idea for this blog really comes into play. I am 42 years old. Even with good intentions in place for most of those years, I still spend an inordinate amount of time listening to, watching, reading and playing things created by men. Because that's our culture. Because it's easy.

What I want to do for this year - for 2017 - is to listen to more women. And watch their movies. And play their games. And just hear their points of view.

I would be lying to you if I pretended that the genesis of this document were purely altruistic or selfless. I have a daughter. Her name is Ava Jean. She's 5 1/2 now and is totally, completely wonderful.She's smart, determined and focused on science and math in ways that I have never been.

As I write this, the inauguration of Donald Trump is only two days away. I am afraid for Ava. I am afraid for her future.

Here begins my year. The first year of my life in which I let women's voices drown out the others. I could do this for the rest of my life and probably still not catch up. I start now, in earnest.

My intention is to share those experiences with you as I go, writing about the women whose voices I admire and listen to and encounter. Next year at this time, I hope to be a better feminist. And a better man.

Andrew Duncan
Jan 18, 2017