THIS. It became a thing bc it was a visible representation of how we as a society normalize men feeling entitled to take up space even at the expense and discomfort of others (meaning excessively so, without consideration...and without being considered selfish for caring for their own interests), while women are often simultaneously uneasy taking up their own space or requesting the ability to barely feel comfortable, and too often seen as overbearing or selfish for ensuring their own needs are covered.

Does that mean that all men take up an excessive amount of space while sitting or don’t consider anyone’s comfort but their own? No. But the “manspreading” became a thing bc it visually represented an issue that is otherwise more covertly and unconsciously laced into more intangible scenarios. And unfortunately as a female, often once you see it and it’s put into words, it’s hard not to notice it happening both literally and figuratively all around you. The thing no one talks about enough is how much waking up to inequities weighs on you once you can see them and are impacted by it (to the point you almost wish you never noticed it). It’s heavy before you see it, but when you notice those details and how they pile up, it’s exhausting. No one WANTS to be a person always fighting for their ability to simply have the bare minimum, and guarding their ability to feel okay having that much once they get it.

All of that being said, I am appreciative that there are communities like this that allow for civil discussions so both sexes can gain insight into the unknown parts that the other deals with. It’s so so important.