Everyday Sexism Still Exists – Even in 2025

“That’s not for women.” Or “Real men don’t cry!” These statements might sound familiar. They can come across as harmless, casual, or even funny. But in truth, they’re examples of everyday sexism. What they have in common: they reinforce outdated gender roles, belittle certain groups, and support ways of thinking we were supposed to have outgrown.

Even though the term “everyday sexism” has been part of public discussion for years, little has changed in daily life. Women, queer people, and non-binary or trans individuals still frequently describe situations in which they feel diminished, laughed at, or pushed into roles they didn’t choose. Men also experience sexist devaluation like when they show emotion or take on caregiving roles.

What Is Everyday Sexism?

Everyday sexism refers to derogatory or stereotypical comments and actions that target people based on their gender. It’s not about major scandals, it’s the small, recurring moments that make it so powerful. It often happens casually, unintentionally, or under the guise of a joke or a “well-meant” remark.

Common forms include:

  • Comments about appearance or clothing
  • Unsolicited explanations or condescension
  • Traditional role assumptions
  • Double standards in behavior and judgment
  • Expectations around body, language, or expression

Everyday sexism often starts in the quiet moments—when no one speaks up, but everyone rolls their eyes. It may not seem aggressive, but its effects are real and lasting.

Everyday Sexism Examples: What It Looks Like in 2024

1. Sexism at work

According to 2024 studies, 61% of women regularly experience mansplaining or feel they aren’t taken seriously. Women still earn 18% less on average and are significantly underrepresented in leadership positions classic gender discrimination.

2. Catcalling in public

Catcalling is one of the most common forms of sexism in daily life. TikTok creators like @lilithsdiary are bringing it to light through real-time reactions. Accounts like @catcallsofluxembourg even document incidents using sidewalk chalk.

Everyday sexism isn’t loud – but it’s everywhere

3. Sexism in advertising

From 2024 deodorant campaigns featuring half-naked models to Mother’s Day and Father’s Day clichés in supermarkets sexism in advertising still reinforces outdated gender stereotypes. And it’s exactly those images that feed the problem.

4. AI and unconscious bias

Even artificial intelligence now shows how deeply ingrained these biases are. Ask an AI tool to show a CEO, and you’ll almost always see a man. Ask for a female doctor, and often you’ll get a sexualized image.

5. Contraception – still seen as a woman’s job

Whether it’s the pill, IUD, or temperature tracking in heterosexual relationships, the responsibility for contraception still falls on women in over 90% of cases. Gender-based expectations and a lack of research on male contraceptive options make the issue worse.

6. Consumption and the pink tax

Whether it’s shampoo or razors products marketed to women often cost more, despite having identical ingredients. This is known as the pink tax a subtle but systematic form of everyday sexism in consumer behavior.

These examples show how diverse everyday sexism can be and how often it shows up in areas that should be gender-neutral. What makes it so difficult: many of these situations seem harmless, but they’re part of a deeply rooted system.

It’s not about being perfect. It’s about staying aware. Change starts with small steps and a willingness to self-reflect.

Why Everyday Sexism Is Still So Effective

The power of everyday sexism lies in how normalized it is. Many people hesitate to speak up, afraid they’ll be seen as overreacting or too sensitive. But over time, these experiences have a real impact: lower confidence, less participation, and reduced equality.

Men are affected too just differently. If they show emotion, they’re quickly seen as weak. If they want to work part-time, they’re questioned. Gender roles are restrictive and leave little room for individuality or diversity.

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Against sexism, for self-determination

What You Can Do About Everyday Sexism

We can’t eliminate everyday sexism at the push of a button but each of us can help challenge it:

  • Pay attention to your environment and recognize discriminatory patterns
  • Speak up when something bothers you politely, but clearly
  • Question your own assumptions about gender roles
  • Support people who speak out or feel disadvantaged
  • Share responsibilities equally in relationships
  • Reflect on how you talk to children about bodies, roles, and behavior

It’s not about being perfect. It’s about staying aware. Change starts with small steps and a willingness to self-reflect.

Why This Still Matters in 2025

We talk a lot about equality, diversity, and inclusion. But as long as it’s still acceptable to laugh at women’s supposed lack of technical skills, or expect men to hide their vulnerability, one thing is clear: there’s still work to be done.

Everyday sexism may be subtle, but its effects are structural. It determines who can thrive freely and who cannot. It shapes a society where equality is often talked about, but not yet truly lived.

What Now?

Everyday sexism isn’t loud. It isn’t dramatic. But it’s everywhere. And that’s what makes it so effective and dangerous. Those who recognize it can help change it. Those who speak up break the cycle. And those who refuse to ignore it help lay the foundation for true equality.

Each of us has the power to shape this change through small everyday actions, honest conversations, and above all by firmly saying no to injustice. Together we can create a future where equality is not just a goal but a lived reality. Let us take on this responsibility for ourselves and for the generations to come.

Image source: pexels-olia-danilevich-6640533, pexels-olia-danilevich-6591743

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