NAVIGATING THE INTERSECTION OF CULTURAL NORMS AND FEMINIST IDEALS IN CHIMAMANDA ADICHIE’S ‘WE SHOULD ALL BE FEMINISTS’: LESSONS FOR NIGERIAN FEMINISTS

Abstract

The global movement of feminism has sought to challenge systemic gender inequalities and patriarchal structures. However, its application within specific cultural contexts remains a subject of critical discourse. Chimamanda Adichie’s We Should All Be Feminists has emerged as a significant text within contemporary African feminist thought, particularly in Nigeria, where traditional gender roles remain deeply embedded. This paper examines the intersection between cultural norms and feminist ideals, analyzing how Adichie’s arguments navigate the tensions between global feminist narratives and indigenous gender expectations. Drawing on theoretical frameworks such as liberal feminism, intersectional feminism, and cultural relativism, the study explores how Adichie critiques gender discrimination in Nigeria while advocating for a localized approach to feminism. The analysis highlights key themes including gender socialization, economic empowerment, and the role of men in feminist advocacy. Furthermore, the study discusses the challenges faced by Nigerian feminists in adapting feminist principles within deeply patriarchal structures and religious traditions. Finally, the paper argues that while Adichie’s work aligns with global feminist ideals, it offers critical lessons for a culturally sensitive and context-specific feminist movement in Nigeria. The findings emphasize the need for an inclusive feminist framework that engages both local traditions and global discourses to promote gender equality effectively.