This statement was made by American journalist and author Bari Weiss, who is well-known for her work with The New York Times, in reference to the difficulties of endorsing a feminist cause. She contends that without sacrificing its core values, feminism ought to be powerful enough to confront the transgressions of those who profess to share its beliefs.

Weiss worries about the possible harm to the larger cause that could result from prominent feminism-related figures acting unethically, like harassing or exploiting others. Her viewpoint demonstrates a sophisticated comprehension of social movements and their capacity to endure internal opposition while upholding their essential principles.

Picture a garden brimming with various types of flowers. Each flower in this garden represents a person who adds to the overall beauty of feminism, and the garden itself is a metaphor for society. But occasionally, there may be a few weeds among the flowers—people who claim to be part of this community but do not actually adhere to feminist principles. Weiss argues that instead of defending the garden against these weeds, it needs to figure out how to stay healthy and pure in the face of them.

Weiss essentially advocates for a feminism that is capable of analyzing and confronting problematic behaviors without discriminating against or demonizing those who are impacted by them. By encouraging resiliency and integrity within the movement, this strategy seeks to fortify it overall.