"Feminsim means equality, in every way and every circumstance."
- Mieka Tennant
MDLF : What are three words that other people would use to describe you?
MT : Nurturing, playful, calm.
MDLF : What are three words that you would use to describe yourself?
MT : Curious, loyal, carnivore.
MDLF : If you knew you were going to die in the next six months, how would you live your life differently?
MT : I would live pretty to close to how I live now, with the exception of moving all the ones I love onto a compound; learning how to play the saxophone; and putting on concerts for everyone each night.
MDLF : Recently, certain human experiences (like c sections, anxiety, depression) have been labeled “pre-existing conditions.” How are these labels detrimental to women’s health?
MT : I find it hard to wrap my head around the health care system in the US being from Canada. Myself and so many people are at at risk and have been punished for the individuality of their health. It's another example of human rights not being protected.
MDLF : What is your greatest accomplishment to date?
MT : Allowing myself to evolve and change, not limiting who I am by how I once was or thought I should be.
MDLF : What values in others do you most cherish?
MT : The subtle care that comes from someone paying attention to another person and their enjoyment in making someone else feel seen and special.
MDLF : Many people are uncomfortable identifying with the world “feminist.” Why is that?
MT : Because it is associated with the feminine getting stronger, which is perceived as a bad thing.
MDLF : Is your work changing in the current political climate? How so?
MT : In accountability and evaluation of it's contribution. I only want to do work that expresses my heart and fight.
MDLF : What should we be fighting for?
MT : Each other.
Mieka Tennant, Co-founder of Anouk Collective
35mm film by Dan Monick
Art Direction | Wardrobe Styling by Monica Reyes
Interview by Monica Reyes and Ariana Coyle