25 For 25: MP5

Talking gender equality with artist MP5 for CHIME FOR CHANGE’s 25 For 25 series, featuring interviews with activists and leaders to mark Women’s History Month and the 25th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women, held in Beijing in 1995.

What are your hopes and expectations for gender equality in the next 25 years? I always think of that sensational banner at a protest that says “I can’t believe I still have to protest this shit”. Well I hope in the next 25 years an issue like gender equality won’t even exist anymore.

What does gender equality mean to you?
It is one of the most basic civil rights and it’s absurd that is something not granted yet.

What keeps you energized and committed as a leader for gender equality?
Being an artist gave me the chance to speak with a louder voice. At the same time as a human being having the chance to be an activist through my work is my chance to act for a better world.

What advice would you give younger generations on how to advocate / work for gender equality as they get older?
Every single situation and context matters. Fighting for rights whenever there’s a chance is what not only the younger generations but all of us must commit to make our existences valuable in terms of evolution.

Who do you look to as an example / role model in the fight for gender equality?
Every single person that deals with gender issues with strength and dignity is my hero.