Reclaiming the Word “Girl”

In 2019, Megan Thee Stallion dropped the song "Hot Girl Summer," and ignited a flame that has yet to be extinguished. With Megan's unapologetic declaration, women seized the opportunity to embrace their inner fierceness, defy societal norms and revel in their autonomy. It became more than a catchphrase; it became a battle cry. Suddenly, "hot girl summer" wasn't just a concept, but a lifestyle. Women reclaimed their sexuality, their confidence and their right to exude unapologetic femininity.

Fast forward to Gen Z and enter the TikTok phenomenon. The app became a cultural breeding ground, churning out trends left and right. It gave birth to "Girl Dinner" TikTok, and "Gorgeous, gorgeous girls love soup!" (if you know you know) both of which became celebrations of female camaraderie. But embracing this trend isn't just about food; it's about reclaiming the word "girl" as a symbol of unity, support, and resilience.

It's impossible to overlook the historical baggage that comes with the term "girl." For years, it was used to belittle, undermine, and patronize women. It was a reminder of the battles fought and the progress made. So, it's incredibly empowering to see women diving headfirst into phrases like "hot girl summer" and "girl dinner," reclaiming what was once used to demean.

Bottom line, embracing the term "girl" represents more than a social media trend; it signifies a cultural upheaval, a seismic shift towards inclusivity and empowerment. It signifies that women are no longer defined solely by their age or societal expectations but by their strength, resilience and unity. It's a declaration that we can be fierce, ambitious, and nurturing all at once. In the immortal words of Queen Bey, "Who runs the world? Girls!"