This might upset some people, and honestly? I hope it does. Because this conversation is long overdue.
Let me start by saying this: I’m a #Swiftie. I’m not a huge sports fan, but that’s not even the point. The point is the disturbing trend of people feeling entitled to tear down a woman—simply for existing in their space.
Taylor Swift has become a lightning rod for criticism, not because of anything she’s done wrong, but because she dares to take up space. She’s a global icon, a cultural force, and yet, people feel the need to diminish her for… sitting at a football game? Smiling? Cheering for someone she loves in what appears to be a happy, supportive relationship?
Let that sink in.
Your kids are watching you. They’re watching you complain about a woman who is doing nothing wrong. They’re watching you judge her for simply existing. And what message does that send? That women should shrink themselves? That their success, their joy, their presence is somehow a threat?
Here’s a reminder of who Taylor Swift is—because it seems some people need it:
- She’s a 14-time Grammy winner with 324 awards to her name.
- She boosted the U.S. economy by $5 billion through her Eras Tour—a feat so monumental it’s being studied by economists.
- Universities like Harvard and Stanford have created courses dedicated to her artistry, lyricism, and impact on music and culture.
- She quietly donates to food banks in every city she performs in, supporting communities without fanfare.
- She stood up to her sexual abuser, sued him for $1, and won—proving that fighting for justice is more important than money.
Still don’t care? You should!
Because your daughters, sons, nieces, and nephews are watching. They’re watching how you talk about women who succeed. They’re learning from your words and actions. When you spew hate toward a woman who has done nothing but excel, you’re teaching them that women who take up space are a problem.
This isn’t just about Taylor Swift. It’s about the broader culture of #misogyny that allows women to be criticized for simply being. It’s about the double standards that demand women be exceptional just to be deemed worthy of respect.
So, what can we do?
Do better.
Teach your boys to respect women—not as objects, but as equals. Teach your girls that they deserve to take up space, to dream big, and to unapologetically pursue their passions.
Fix it.
Be mindful of your words. Whether you realize it or not, they shape the future. And we all have a responsibility to make that future better—one where women are celebrated, not scrutinized, for their success and their presence.
#TaylorSwift is more than a musician. She’s a symbol of resilience, creativity, and empowerment. And if her success makes you uncomfortable, maybe it’s time to ask yourself why.
The next generation is watching. What will you teach them?