I am a feminist

I am a feminist.
Cant feminism be part of my identity?

While reading bell hook's ¨Feminist theory", there was a whole chapter devoted to feminism. In which she says some very provocative things

p31" we could avoid using the phrase, 'I am a feminist' (a linguistic structure designed to refer to some personal aspect of identity and self- definition) and could state, 'I advocate feminism'

"A phrase like 'I advocate' does not imply the kind of absolutism that is suggested by 'I am.' It does not engage us in the either/ or dualistic thinking that is the central ideological component of all systems of domination in Western society. It implies that a choice has been made, that commitment to feminism is an act of will."

on the page prior she says

"Focusing on feminism as political commitment, we resist the emphasis on individual identity and lifestyle. (This should not be confused with the very real need to unite theory and practice.)"

I have been thinking a lot about "politics" and "religion" and how absolute they seem in how we live our lives. The more I read about feminism the more I think it is the same.

I am a bleeding-heart liberal.

I am a theist.

I am a feminist.

The beliefs that I have behind the previous statements are why I can say them. Based on these beliefs and my experiences are how I make my decisions and mold my thoughts.

I understand that feminism shouldn't be seen as a suite you put on in the morning, but I don't think one could really make the claim that it doesn't come without a lifestyle. It implies a choice has been made as bell hooks said -- it is a commitment. So why wouldn't it be a lifestyle?

If there is feminism, how could their not be feminists?