I am an ugly woman - a response to the notion which vilifies feminists

I am an ugly woman*

(In Sri Lanka where I was born and bred there is a vilifying notion that, feminists are ugly women who cannot attract men, so they criticize patriarchy out of frustration. Men have said that I am ugly to my face to silence me when I raise my voice against social injustices and sexual harassment. Here’s my response.)

I am an ugly woman

because I say ‘no’ to men

when I feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

I am an ugly woman

because I fight against

all forms of ‘harassments.’

I am an ugly woman

because I speak up and question

when I see inequalities.

I am an ugly woman

because I cannot be controlled

by patriarchal tools.

I am an ugly woman

because I am independent,

fierce, loud, and unapologetic.

I am an ugly woman

because I am not silent, tolerating,

and I do not reiterate toxic masculinity.

I am an ugly woman

because I love and care for myself

and I do not pamper haters.

I will be ugly by

dissecting and exposing the ugliness of the historical power,

the systems and civilization.