Emma Watson’s HeForShe Speech!

On Sunday, September 20, United Nations Women Global Goodwill Ambassador Emma Watson delivered at incredible speech on behalf of the HeForShe movement.

From the United Nations Headquarters in New York, Emma urged people everywhere, including boys and men, to get involved in the fight for women's rights and promoting gender equality. 

More and more, a stigma has become attached with the word "feminism," Emma explained. People think feminism is about hating men, when really it's about fighting for equal rights and opportunities for both genders.

"I am from Britain and I think it is right that I am paid the same as my male counterparts," Emma said in her speech. "I think it is right that I should be able to make decisions about my own body, I think it is right that women be involved on my behalf in the policies and the decisions that affect my life. I think it is right that socially, I am afforded the same respect as men."

But, at least for now, perfect gender equality doesn't seem to exist anywhere in the world. It's something to strive toward. After all, women's rights are human rights.

Often, boys and girls are treated differently from each other from the time they are born. By the time they are teenagers, girls might be discouraged from participating in the same activities as their male counterparts. This can be avoided with the right support from parents, teachers and mentors. Females can grow up with just the same opportunities as males.

In her speech, Emma also stressed that men aren't necessarily equal, either. Out of a mother and father, the father is often seen as the lesser parent. Boys aren't as free to speak openly about their emotions without being criticized.

"We don't want to talk about men being imprisoned by gender stereotypes but I can see that they are," she said. "When they are free, things will change for women as a natural consequence. If men don't have to be aggressive, women won't be compelled to be submissive. If men don't need to control, women won't have to be controlled."

That's why HeForShe aims to free both men and women from gender stereotypes, promoting equality for all.

Though people might just see Emma Watson as an actress of Harry Potter fame, she can use her recognition in the media to raise awareness for a cause that really matters!

Some of our favorite celebrities have also joined Emma in the #HeForShe campaign by supported her cause. Camila Cabello of Fifth Harmony, Demi Lovato, One Direction's Harry Styles and many more have shown their support!

Check out her full speech below and let us know what you think in the comments below. Tell us how you fight for equality in our community at Sweety High and click here to check out more great girl power news!