Lady Gaga has always been a spokesperson for women’s rights and feminism.

So it came as no surprise when the singer penned an essay about womanhood, titled “Lady Gaga: Portrait of a Lady”, and discussed how women are constantly belittled and dehumanized. She argues that we need to continue to speak out against it — because “we’re fighting for our lives.”

Lady Gaga attributes her strength and rebelliousness to the “tough women” in her life, including her late aunt Joanne (who she was named after). The singer talked about how her aunt is a “spirit guide” to understanding herself:

Being a lady today means being a fighter. It means being a survivor. It means letting yourself be vulnerable and acknowledging your shame or that you’re sad or you’re angry. It takes great strength to do that.

You can read Lady Gaga’s full essay in Harper’s Bazaar‘s December/January issue.

xx, The FabFitFun Team