Krysten Sanders
Jeanina Perez
WST 3015
April 24, 2010
Activism
With everything for our event wrapped up, we basically have been working on our presentation. We are all still keeping in touch with Ariel through e-mail. She was able to sign all of our hours sheets as well.
Reflection
As in Seely's number 11 step in activism, we held a meeting after the event (22). This was when we were able to return all of the supplies we borrowed from Ariel as well as have her sign our hours sheets.
Reciprocity
I'm happy that I was able to work with the people in our group. We all contributed something different; some did a lot of organizing, others used creativity, and we all spread the word. I feel accomplished and successful with this whole project, and I hope to continue to help out the organization in the future.
Seely, Megan. Fight Like a Girl: How to be a Fearless Feminist. New York and London: New York University Press, 2007
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Activism Log 9
Krysten Sanders
Jeanina Perez
WST 3015
April 17, 2010
Activism
We held our donation drive/signing event this past Sunday. It was a family owned Italian restaurant. We collected tons of donations prior to the event as well as during it. Although the restaurant was closed, the owner provided us with pizza for those attending. We had around fifty people who signed to help out or gave donations. During the time we spent there we had our display boards up with plenty of flyers and the DVD playing on four different televisions.
Reflection
Because the Animal Safehouse is a source for women seeking homes for pets in domestic violence situation, it more or less reaches out to families. For this reason we chose a family-oriented and owned restaurant. This was the best place because it was "symbolic of the issue" we were raising, as Seely claims is important (20).
Reciprocity
It was a successful event. We had so many donations, we filled up Ariel's car with boxes of them. I enjoyed it, and we all finally were able to get together and meet in one place with Ariel. She was also very excited about everything we were doing, which made me feel as though our efforts were appreciated.
Seely, Megan. Fight Like a Girl: How to be a Fearless Feminist. New York and London: New York University Press, 2007
Jeanina Perez
WST 3015
April 17, 2010
Activism
We held our donation drive/signing event this past Sunday. It was a family owned Italian restaurant. We collected tons of donations prior to the event as well as during it. Although the restaurant was closed, the owner provided us with pizza for those attending. We had around fifty people who signed to help out or gave donations. During the time we spent there we had our display boards up with plenty of flyers and the DVD playing on four different televisions.
Reflection
Because the Animal Safehouse is a source for women seeking homes for pets in domestic violence situation, it more or less reaches out to families. For this reason we chose a family-oriented and owned restaurant. This was the best place because it was "symbolic of the issue" we were raising, as Seely claims is important (20).
Reciprocity
It was a successful event. We had so many donations, we filled up Ariel's car with boxes of them. I enjoyed it, and we all finally were able to get together and meet in one place with Ariel. She was also very excited about everything we were doing, which made me feel as though our efforts were appreciated.
Seely, Megan. Fight Like a Girl: How to be a Fearless Feminist. New York and London: New York University Press, 2007
Activism Log 8
Krysten Sanders
Jeanina Perez
WST 3015
April 10, 2010
Activism
I completed the DVD we are going to use for our signing/donation event. I attended a tabling event that involved Animal Safehouse and other equality groups. We sold a couple headbands and I met two of the other members of Animal Safehouse: Cherie and Christine. We did a lot of explaining to the people who attended the event, and also introduced ourselves as each group had to.
Reflection
As each person came by our table, I saw most of them were incorporating their "path of least resistance" (Johnson 68) They care about animals as they say, but are not willing to actually foster a pet to help someone in need. They more or less were acting as if these kinds of things do not concern them because they have no experience with them.
Reciprocity
I enjoyed this event. I always feel accomplished when I can spread the word about things I care for. It helps that I am able to do so much with this project. BARC is holding a protest for the upcoming circus on campus, but unfortunately I will be working and not able to attend. Even if it is not a protest or big event, tabling helped me to promote something I care about.
Kirk, Gwyn and Okazawa-Rey, Margo. Women's Lives. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2010. Print.
Jeanina Perez
WST 3015
April 10, 2010
Activism
I completed the DVD we are going to use for our signing/donation event. I attended a tabling event that involved Animal Safehouse and other equality groups. We sold a couple headbands and I met two of the other members of Animal Safehouse: Cherie and Christine. We did a lot of explaining to the people who attended the event, and also introduced ourselves as each group had to.
Reflection
As each person came by our table, I saw most of them were incorporating their "path of least resistance" (Johnson 68) They care about animals as they say, but are not willing to actually foster a pet to help someone in need. They more or less were acting as if these kinds of things do not concern them because they have no experience with them.
Reciprocity
I enjoyed this event. I always feel accomplished when I can spread the word about things I care for. It helps that I am able to do so much with this project. BARC is holding a protest for the upcoming circus on campus, but unfortunately I will be working and not able to attend. Even if it is not a protest or big event, tabling helped me to promote something I care about.
Kirk, Gwyn and Okazawa-Rey, Margo. Women's Lives. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2010. Print.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Activism Log 7
Krysten Sanders
Jeanina Perez
WST 3015
April 3, 2010
Activism
I have not been able to do much because of my schedule, however the lovely display board is finished and all that is left to do are finishing up the DVD. I will most likely be calling in to work the next week just to do what I need to. I plan on helping out at a tabling even for the 9th.
Reflection
Another one of my Anthropology classes requires me to write a 500-word paper every Wednesday. There is a different theme, or type of Anthropology each week. This past week was gender in Anthropology. The essay I had to read included the myth of "Man the Hunter" (and was written by a feminist Anthropologist). This had a big connection with many of the rape myths, such as all men being naturally aggressive and women naturally passive (WLMP 266). I was constantly reminded of the things I read about from Violence Against Women while I was writing this paper.
Reciprocity
Although I have had a hard time with scheduling for things, I think this class and the readings have impacted the way I view Anthropology. I recognize things I would not have before, such as the issues with gender and male-bias. It is not the same as it has been, since "Man the Hunter" is not believed by Anthropologists anymore.
Kirk, Gwyn and Okazawa-Rey, Margo. Women's Lives. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2010. Print.
Jeanina Perez
WST 3015
April 3, 2010
Activism
I have not been able to do much because of my schedule, however the lovely display board is finished and all that is left to do are finishing up the DVD. I will most likely be calling in to work the next week just to do what I need to. I plan on helping out at a tabling even for the 9th.
Reflection
Another one of my Anthropology classes requires me to write a 500-word paper every Wednesday. There is a different theme, or type of Anthropology each week. This past week was gender in Anthropology. The essay I had to read included the myth of "Man the Hunter" (and was written by a feminist Anthropologist). This had a big connection with many of the rape myths, such as all men being naturally aggressive and women naturally passive (WLMP 266). I was constantly reminded of the things I read about from Violence Against Women while I was writing this paper.
Reciprocity
Although I have had a hard time with scheduling for things, I think this class and the readings have impacted the way I view Anthropology. I recognize things I would not have before, such as the issues with gender and male-bias. It is not the same as it has been, since "Man the Hunter" is not believed by Anthropologists anymore.
Kirk, Gwyn and Okazawa-Rey, Margo. Women's Lives. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2010. Print.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
El Ambiente del Fauno
Krysten Sanders
WST 3015
Jeannina Perez
04-14-10
The movie Pan’s Labyrinth follows the story of a young girl obsessed with fairytales. She moves with her pregnant mother to the house of her new father. Initially the father is seen as authoritative, since he is a leader in the military. He also shows that he should be respected by his new family and what he says should go. This already sets the standard that women should be obedient to men. In order to escape the problems of the real world, Ofelia (the main character) goes on a mission set before her by a Faun. The Faun ultimately represents nature. He tells Ofelia that she is a princess and needs to complete tasks to prove herself so she can be in her kingdom again. Ofelia shows no fear when being confronted by the Faun. She in fact finds him by following a strange bug she calls a fairy. I noticed when watching this part with the class, a few of the others appeared uncomfortable with the fairy. It is odd that a young girl would be so willing to chase something that makes several adults cringe.
Ofelia is connected to nature, and female. Another female character, Mercedes, is also in a way connected. Ofelia questions Mercedes about fairies, and Mercedes tells her that she used to believe in those kinds of things and her mother warned her to be wary. The stories are all involving female characters. Fewer male characters play an important role in the story. Another aspect of the film is when Ofelia uses a plant or root to improve her mother’s health. This directly relates women and pregnancy to nature. This is similar to the idea that “pregnancy and motherhood are private.” The mother is stuck inside her bedroom for the whole movie except to eat, and nature is used to help her.
In another scene, the Faun approaches Ofelia and she shows him that there is only one remaining fairy. He scolds her, saying that she made a mistake and can never return to the kingdom. Further connecting the girl to nature he says “Your spirit shall forever remain among the humans. You shall age like them, you shall die like them and all memory of you shall fade in time. And we’ll vanish along with it.” It is obvious that nature depends on Ofelia. She is the protector, a princess, who must fight to save everything in nature. She is young and innocent – a virgin. It is typical for a character like her to be portrayed as the savior of nature, such as the imagery of the “virgin forest.” (WLMP 539)
The visual effects of the movie are frightening when nature is depicted. The evil aspects of nature are male. The colors are dark and the Faun appears to be friendly at first, and then hostile later. In the end when Ofelia reaches her kingdom, the Faun is standing with her family as a friend.
Works Cited
Kirk, Gwyn and Okazawa-Rey, Margo. Women's Lives. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2010. Print.
Pan's Labyrinth. Dir. Guillermo Del Toro. Perf. Ivana Baquero, Doug Jones. 2006. DVD.
WST 3015
Jeannina Perez
04-14-10
The movie Pan’s Labyrinth follows the story of a young girl obsessed with fairytales. She moves with her pregnant mother to the house of her new father. Initially the father is seen as authoritative, since he is a leader in the military. He also shows that he should be respected by his new family and what he says should go. This already sets the standard that women should be obedient to men. In order to escape the problems of the real world, Ofelia (the main character) goes on a mission set before her by a Faun. The Faun ultimately represents nature. He tells Ofelia that she is a princess and needs to complete tasks to prove herself so she can be in her kingdom again. Ofelia shows no fear when being confronted by the Faun. She in fact finds him by following a strange bug she calls a fairy. I noticed when watching this part with the class, a few of the others appeared uncomfortable with the fairy. It is odd that a young girl would be so willing to chase something that makes several adults cringe.
Ofelia is connected to nature, and female. Another female character, Mercedes, is also in a way connected. Ofelia questions Mercedes about fairies, and Mercedes tells her that she used to believe in those kinds of things and her mother warned her to be wary. The stories are all involving female characters. Fewer male characters play an important role in the story. Another aspect of the film is when Ofelia uses a plant or root to improve her mother’s health. This directly relates women and pregnancy to nature. This is similar to the idea that “pregnancy and motherhood are private.” The mother is stuck inside her bedroom for the whole movie except to eat, and nature is used to help her.
In another scene, the Faun approaches Ofelia and she shows him that there is only one remaining fairy. He scolds her, saying that she made a mistake and can never return to the kingdom. Further connecting the girl to nature he says “Your spirit shall forever remain among the humans. You shall age like them, you shall die like them and all memory of you shall fade in time. And we’ll vanish along with it.” It is obvious that nature depends on Ofelia. She is the protector, a princess, who must fight to save everything in nature. She is young and innocent – a virgin. It is typical for a character like her to be portrayed as the savior of nature, such as the imagery of the “virgin forest.” (WLMP 539)
The visual effects of the movie are frightening when nature is depicted. The evil aspects of nature are male. The colors are dark and the Faun appears to be friendly at first, and then hostile later. In the end when Ofelia reaches her kingdom, the Faun is standing with her family as a friend.
Works Cited
Kirk, Gwyn and Okazawa-Rey, Margo. Women's Lives. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2010. Print.
Pan's Labyrinth. Dir. Guillermo Del Toro. Perf. Ivana Baquero, Doug Jones. 2006. DVD.
Monday, April 5, 2010
"Allah Kareem"
The blog of November 9th, 2003 is personal, political, and educational. She includes a link to another blog about food and starts off with a short story of her relatives. This is personal considering she is writing of her personal life and relationships. Later on she includes a brief history of the Baghdad University, including how it became a university and how the people in charge have changed over the years. It goes into being political when she recites a story someone told her about an event that took place at the university. There were people trained to be campus security and this led to abuse of power and violence. She makes a point to say they were probably trained by soldiers before the American troops left. In her blog she describes the dean as small, earnest and pale. This is opposite of what is described as militarized masculinity. (508) It is surprising that he would have any power at all to do anything about the situation, since he is not described as “masculine.”
Furthermore, there is a “glocality” within her blog. (WLMP 634) She discusses how the university was lacking text books because they are being refused. The courses are mostly taught in English, so the books are also in English. Because it is common for people foreign to Iraq to assume that educating Iraqis will lead to weapons of mass destruction, it affected the university experience of the students at Baghdad University.
Even though the blog is mostly telling a story, she uses ideas and terms from the Iraqi culture. She includes that when telling a sad story her relatives begin and end in a certain way. She then ends the blog in the same way. It indicates that although she is telling the story in a formal way, there is much emotion or sadness intertwined in it. She leaves out her own feelings and uses the ending as the only hint. I think this is a way of passively making her opinion known to the public without excluding any facts of the events that took place.
Work Cited
Kirk, Gwyn and Okazawa-Rey, Margo. Women's Lives. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2010. Print.
Riverbend. "Galub Memdeshen..." Weblog post. Baghdad Burning. 9 Nov. 2003. Web. 5 Apr. 2010.
Furthermore, there is a “glocality” within her blog. (WLMP 634) She discusses how the university was lacking text books because they are being refused. The courses are mostly taught in English, so the books are also in English. Because it is common for people foreign to Iraq to assume that educating Iraqis will lead to weapons of mass destruction, it affected the university experience of the students at Baghdad University.
Even though the blog is mostly telling a story, she uses ideas and terms from the Iraqi culture. She includes that when telling a sad story her relatives begin and end in a certain way. She then ends the blog in the same way. It indicates that although she is telling the story in a formal way, there is much emotion or sadness intertwined in it. She leaves out her own feelings and uses the ending as the only hint. I think this is a way of passively making her opinion known to the public without excluding any facts of the events that took place.
Work Cited
Kirk, Gwyn and Okazawa-Rey, Margo. Women's Lives. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2010. Print.
Riverbend. "Galub Memdeshen..." Weblog post. Baghdad Burning. 9 Nov. 2003. Web. 5 Apr. 2010.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Activism Log 6
Activism
I spent the past week informing friends, coworkers and classmates about the event we are holding for Animal Safehouse. I also worked more on the DVD which is still not finished. My roommate and coworker also offered to help out and come to the event after I explained what Animal Safehouse does.
Reflection
I have realized a lot more people care about helping in domestic violence situations than I originally had thought. Usually when I ask people to help out with things like Walk for Farm Animals they are not interested, but as soon as I explained that people are involved they are more willing to listen. This disappoints me because it makes me think of how people automatically ignore certain things because of myths or ignorance. It is similar to how people think feminism is no longer necessary (Seely 7).
Reciprocity
I feel as though I have learned more effective ways of explaining things to people who never think about women in society. I think this could also help me in my animal activism. So many people assume everything is alright or ignore what actually is going on.
Seely, Megan. Fight Like a Girl: How to be a Fearless Feminist. New York and London: New York University Press, 2007
I spent the past week informing friends, coworkers and classmates about the event we are holding for Animal Safehouse. I also worked more on the DVD which is still not finished. My roommate and coworker also offered to help out and come to the event after I explained what Animal Safehouse does.
Reflection
I have realized a lot more people care about helping in domestic violence situations than I originally had thought. Usually when I ask people to help out with things like Walk for Farm Animals they are not interested, but as soon as I explained that people are involved they are more willing to listen. This disappoints me because it makes me think of how people automatically ignore certain things because of myths or ignorance. It is similar to how people think feminism is no longer necessary (Seely 7).
Reciprocity
I feel as though I have learned more effective ways of explaining things to people who never think about women in society. I think this could also help me in my animal activism. So many people assume everything is alright or ignore what actually is going on.
Seely, Megan. Fight Like a Girl: How to be a Fearless Feminist. New York and London: New York University Press, 2007
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Activism Log 5
Activism
The time I have spent recently has been finishing up the display board for the event(s) and getting information and photographs and such together to put on the DVD. I will most likely post pictures of the display board as soon as I can get a camera.
Reflection
The display board did not give me many problems at all, but the DVD is a bit difficult. It is not just cutting and pasting pictures and information; I have to figure out a way to organize everything so it does not come out looking tacky. I will be able to put the basic information on it, but will be working with my group members to figure out some creative things to add to it. This is all part of our visual action as in Seely's step number 6 in activism (21).
Reciprocity
I am glad that I can work on these kinds of things. It is more convenient since I am not able to spend so much time on campus or out and about. It also is something that I enjoy. I think it is important to incorporate hobbies or talents (things one enjoys) into activism because it can be very difficult.
Seely, Megan. Fight Like a Girl: How to be a Fearless Feminist. New York and London: New York University Press, 2007
The time I have spent recently has been finishing up the display board for the event(s) and getting information and photographs and such together to put on the DVD. I will most likely post pictures of the display board as soon as I can get a camera.
Reflection
The display board did not give me many problems at all, but the DVD is a bit difficult. It is not just cutting and pasting pictures and information; I have to figure out a way to organize everything so it does not come out looking tacky. I will be able to put the basic information on it, but will be working with my group members to figure out some creative things to add to it. This is all part of our visual action as in Seely's step number 6 in activism (21).
Reciprocity
I am glad that I can work on these kinds of things. It is more convenient since I am not able to spend so much time on campus or out and about. It also is something that I enjoy. I think it is important to incorporate hobbies or talents (things one enjoys) into activism because it can be very difficult.
Seely, Megan. Fight Like a Girl: How to be a Fearless Feminist. New York and London: New York University Press, 2007
Friday, March 19, 2010
Family Guy - Mother and Gender
The episode Go Stewie Go from Family Guy has two main topics going on simultaneously. One is Stewie posing as a girl to be on a television show, and the other surrounds Meg’s boyfriend. First of all, this show is a parody of American families. It exaggerates issues to make the watcher think about what is going on, and ultimately has a message behind every episode.
The story involving Meg’s new boyfriend is more direct in addressing women’s roles in the family. She brings home her new boyfriend (who turns out to be “normal”) and the family is shocked. The new boyfriend, Anthony, compliments Lois (the mother) on being attractive. Lois takes this to heart because her husband (Peter) had been treating her badly and calling her old and unattractive. Lois decides to have an affair with Anthony after taking advice from a friend, resulting in problems with her daughter. Lois admits to Peter what she did, and he is upset and explains that he had been treating her badly because he feels bad about himself. This situation shows a conflict between Lois’ role as mother and as wife. Not only has she betrayed her husband, but she has also let her selfishness betray her daughter. The characters make a big deal about how Meg never has a good boyfriend. As soon a she proves she can have one Lois gets involved with him. Lois blames it all on Peter because he treated her badly, showing how men can have dominance or control over women in the “institution of marriage.” (WLMP 317)
The other story starts out with Stewie and the family dog Brian attending an audition for a children’s television show. There are no more roles for boys, so Stewie desperately poses as a girl and gets on the show. In this, Brian is playing the motherly role to Stewie. He takes Stewie everywhere and nobody else in the family knows about what is going on. Stewie raises issues on the set such as women standing up for themselves and also transvestites. This is because he is placed under what Sealy calls a glass ceiling as a woman. (99) It was interesting when one of the other girls (who is being mistreated by her boyfriend) on the show asks why they cannot have only girlfriends instead of boyfriends. This raises the issue of the norm of heterosexuality and the problems discussed in the readings about women sacrificing friendships to compete with one another for men.
Work Cited
Seely, Megan. Fight Like a Girl. New York: New York University Press, 2007. Print.
Kirk, Gwyn and Okazawa-Rey, Margo. Women's Lives. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2010. Print.
The story involving Meg’s new boyfriend is more direct in addressing women’s roles in the family. She brings home her new boyfriend (who turns out to be “normal”) and the family is shocked. The new boyfriend, Anthony, compliments Lois (the mother) on being attractive. Lois takes this to heart because her husband (Peter) had been treating her badly and calling her old and unattractive. Lois decides to have an affair with Anthony after taking advice from a friend, resulting in problems with her daughter. Lois admits to Peter what she did, and he is upset and explains that he had been treating her badly because he feels bad about himself. This situation shows a conflict between Lois’ role as mother and as wife. Not only has she betrayed her husband, but she has also let her selfishness betray her daughter. The characters make a big deal about how Meg never has a good boyfriend. As soon a she proves she can have one Lois gets involved with him. Lois blames it all on Peter because he treated her badly, showing how men can have dominance or control over women in the “institution of marriage.” (WLMP 317)
The other story starts out with Stewie and the family dog Brian attending an audition for a children’s television show. There are no more roles for boys, so Stewie desperately poses as a girl and gets on the show. In this, Brian is playing the motherly role to Stewie. He takes Stewie everywhere and nobody else in the family knows about what is going on. Stewie raises issues on the set such as women standing up for themselves and also transvestites. This is because he is placed under what Sealy calls a glass ceiling as a woman. (99) It was interesting when one of the other girls (who is being mistreated by her boyfriend) on the show asks why they cannot have only girlfriends instead of boyfriends. This raises the issue of the norm of heterosexuality and the problems discussed in the readings about women sacrificing friendships to compete with one another for men.
Work Cited
Seely, Megan. Fight Like a Girl. New York: New York University Press, 2007. Print.
Kirk, Gwyn and Okazawa-Rey, Margo. Women's Lives. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2010. Print.
Activism Log 4
Activism
I have been working on decorating a display board for the events. We are planning to have two of them. The board and DVD are really the only things I have time to do since I am only home later in the evening, and by the time I am home everything else is already over. It is coming together well; the board is larger and gives me plenty of space to put all the information I need on it.
Reflection
I am struggling with trying to get things done. I have been experiencing problems at work with a certain manager. They schedule me on days I have class, and when I try to give away shifts the manager assumes I do not want to work because I am being lazy - even though I have told them so many times that I am a full-time student. I feel like I have not been doing as much as I can because of this. I am lacking motivation but I do not want to give up on this project. I do not appreciate being talked to like a child; as much as I do for my job sometimes I feel as though my work isn't recognized or respected (Seely 99).
Reciprocity
Working on this display board is allowing me to relieve stress. I can just use my own creativity for a cause without having to rush through it or do much research. I am glad I am able to do this because passing out fliers or tabling the past few weeks has been impossible and would probably have caused more stress. Putting things together helps me to not worry so much about other things going on, I just have to keep my hands busy.
Seely, Megan. Fight Like a Girl: How to be a Fearless Feminist. New York and London: New York University Press, 2007
I have been working on decorating a display board for the events. We are planning to have two of them. The board and DVD are really the only things I have time to do since I am only home later in the evening, and by the time I am home everything else is already over. It is coming together well; the board is larger and gives me plenty of space to put all the information I need on it.
Reflection
I am struggling with trying to get things done. I have been experiencing problems at work with a certain manager. They schedule me on days I have class, and when I try to give away shifts the manager assumes I do not want to work because I am being lazy - even though I have told them so many times that I am a full-time student. I feel like I have not been doing as much as I can because of this. I am lacking motivation but I do not want to give up on this project. I do not appreciate being talked to like a child; as much as I do for my job sometimes I feel as though my work isn't recognized or respected (Seely 99).
Reciprocity
Working on this display board is allowing me to relieve stress. I can just use my own creativity for a cause without having to rush through it or do much research. I am glad I am able to do this because passing out fliers or tabling the past few weeks has been impossible and would probably have caused more stress. Putting things together helps me to not worry so much about other things going on, I just have to keep my hands busy.
Seely, Megan. Fight Like a Girl: How to be a Fearless Feminist. New York and London: New York University Press, 2007
Monday, March 8, 2010
The Rake...
The Rake’s Song by the Decembrists is a story about a widower who kills his children. It is told in first-person, from the killer's point of view. The man is married when he is twenty-one; his wife later has three children, and then dies giving birth to the fourth. He takes it upon himself to murder the three living children. First of all, the title includes the word Rake and the narrator also calls himself a rake. This is a slang term for a man who does as he pleases and does not have respect for women. He could also be called a womanizer. If the man glorifies the title of rake, why would he even want to be married? There is no indication of any obligation to marry. It is possible it was done on a whim. The story is also narrated as events that had happened in the past. It is unclear if the man disliked his children from the beginning, or if he later developed this feeling when his wife died. Since he had three children before his wife died, I am going to assume that he did not hate the children initially. The death of his wife may have been what pushed him to murder. Either way, the song still makes murder appear to be something good. It reminds me of shirts that feature a man and woman in wedding apparel with the words “game over” beneath them. I have only ever seen men wear them. Men are expected to be independent, masculine, and “rakes.” The man’s wife is dead, so he is supposed to be free. Men should not love their children, because it is his wife’s job. It clearly says that he does not regret murdering the children at the end of the song. These ideas are part of what the authors of Women’s Lives mean by “The Cultural Legitimation of Male Violence… includes cultural beliefs of male superiority and male control of women’s behavior and the family.” (WLMP 266) It is in this way that a person can put women and children on the same level as inferior to men. His children are useless without his wife. Seely states “I fear that violence, specifically male-perpetrated violence, has become so commonplace that it is largely accepted.” (200) For example, if this song were about a woman killing her children it would probably not be as popular. Women are expected to be loving and caring and the media always uses stories of women’s violence because it is more shocking. This song implies that men do not care about women and children (or anyone else for that matter), have aggressive anger that needs to be fulfilled with violence, and can murder without anyone noticing.
Work Cited
Seely, Megan. Fight Like a Girl. New York: New York University Press, 2007. Print.
Kirk, Gwyn and Okazawa-Rey, Margo. Women's Lives. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2010. Print.
Work Cited
Seely, Megan. Fight Like a Girl. New York: New York University Press, 2007. Print.
Kirk, Gwyn and Okazawa-Rey, Margo. Women's Lives. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2010. Print.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Activism Log 3
Activism
This week I was not able to do much at all. However I finally got a board for decoration and I will be working on a DVD for our event. We have one, and possibly two venues now for our signing party. I work every day that I am not in class, so I do not have much time to do anything else during the day.
Reflection
This whole project is becoming very stressful, but I know as soon as we can get it on schedule everything will work out. I am having to balance so many things at once, and I am glad that we have finally reached spring break. I think it will give me more time to be able to get my head on straight. The only thing I have been able to do so far is try and "incorporate activism" into my daily life as Seely advises, since that is really the best time I have to do so (24).
Reciprocity
It feels like everything is slowly starting to come together for us. For most everyone else this spring break is probably their vacation, but for me I will be able to get things done since I normally do not have a single day off - ever.
Seely, Megan. Fight Like a Girl: How to be a Fearless Feminist. New York and London: New York University Press, 2007
This week I was not able to do much at all. However I finally got a board for decoration and I will be working on a DVD for our event. We have one, and possibly two venues now for our signing party. I work every day that I am not in class, so I do not have much time to do anything else during the day.
Reflection
This whole project is becoming very stressful, but I know as soon as we can get it on schedule everything will work out. I am having to balance so many things at once, and I am glad that we have finally reached spring break. I think it will give me more time to be able to get my head on straight. The only thing I have been able to do so far is try and "incorporate activism" into my daily life as Seely advises, since that is really the best time I have to do so (24).
Reciprocity
It feels like everything is slowly starting to come together for us. For most everyone else this spring break is probably their vacation, but for me I will be able to get things done since I normally do not have a single day off - ever.
Seely, Megan. Fight Like a Girl: How to be a Fearless Feminist. New York and London: New York University Press, 2007
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Activism Log Week 2
Activism
This week was not much success, I spent most of the time sending e-mails to my group members and trying to plan things. I was sick most of the week, but Monday plan to look around for venues for the signing party with Katelyn and Seabury. I was also asked to help decorate a display board.
Reflection
I already know how difficult these things can be, since volunteering takes time and does not pay bills or give passing grades. I hope that the coming week we will be able to work together more on things or at least get more done. I will most likely try to take on the task of creating the display board because I do not have much spare time for anything else. As Seely says, "we are confronted with the challenge of how to strike a balance between our desires and our social responsibilities" (15).
Reciprocity
This past week one of my cats died, and already being involved in animal rights I now feel more strongly the need to help the pets and women involved in these domestic problems. The worst part is that my cat was eight hours away with my parents and I had no control over it and I will not be able to see him again. I imagine the women might have similar feelings of helplessness with their own pets.
Seely, Megan. Fight Like a Girl: How to be a Fearless Feminist. New York and London: New York University Press, 2007
This week was not much success, I spent most of the time sending e-mails to my group members and trying to plan things. I was sick most of the week, but Monday plan to look around for venues for the signing party with Katelyn and Seabury. I was also asked to help decorate a display board.
Reflection
I already know how difficult these things can be, since volunteering takes time and does not pay bills or give passing grades. I hope that the coming week we will be able to work together more on things or at least get more done. I will most likely try to take on the task of creating the display board because I do not have much spare time for anything else. As Seely says, "we are confronted with the challenge of how to strike a balance between our desires and our social responsibilities" (15).
Reciprocity
This past week one of my cats died, and already being involved in animal rights I now feel more strongly the need to help the pets and women involved in these domestic problems. The worst part is that my cat was eight hours away with my parents and I had no control over it and I will not be able to see him again. I imagine the women might have similar feelings of helplessness with their own pets.
Seely, Megan. Fight Like a Girl: How to be a Fearless Feminist. New York and London: New York University Press, 2007
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
The Spell's on You
Krysten Sanders
WST 3015
Jeannina Perez
02-17-10
Teen Witch is a movie from 1989 that follows the life of a teenager around age sixteen when she mysteriously develops magical powers and becomes a witch. In the opening scene the main character, Louise, is strutting around in a tiny red dress to attract the attention of a boy she likes from her school. The first thing I noticed was Louise backing away from the boy whenever he came too close, yet she was doing everything she could to draw him closer. This is an example what the authors of Women’s Lives meant when writing about simultaneously luring men and fending them off (150). After a few minutes this whole scene turns out to be a dream. Almost all of the characters in the movie are thin and pretty, even the “nerdy” or unattractive ones. The only character I noticed to not be either of those was Louise’s little brother. The movie sent out the message that style or appearance is what makes a person. All Louise had to do was change her hair and clothes (not to mention have magical powers) and she was one of the “popular” girls. Thinking one’s appearance is more important than personality is what is meant by “self-objectification” (233). Louise thinks the only way to be popular is to look like a famous musician.
The disturbing part of the movie is that Louise is desperate to have Brad – the boy from her dream – fall in love with her. She totally ignores that there is more to life than boys. The cheerleaders also have a cheer in their locker room about boys. (I found it interesting that every high school student is a professional dancer or singer.) Whenever Louise becomes popular, she loses her best friend. This is a very common occurrence in most movies geared toward teenage audiences. This is also similar to the idea that in maturation, women need to become enemies or distance themselves from one another in order to win over men. The girls in this movie do whatever they can to attract the boys, but the boys do not have to do anything. The movie ended in a more positive way, showing that a person should not try hard to become something he or she is not in order to win others over. Near the end of the movie Louise’s father said “…it doesn't really matter how other people see you, what matters is how you see yourself.” I thought this was good for encouraging young women; however I noticed it was the father who had all of the good advice and the mother was a very flat character. I was unsure of what the mother actually did. In one scene she cooked breakfast for the family, but was wearing what appeared to be a business suit.
Work Cited
Kirk, Gwyn and Okazawa-Rey, Margo. Women's Lives. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2010. Print.
Teen Witch. Dir. Dorian Walker. Perf. Robyn Lively, Dan Gauthier, Joshua John Miller. Trans World Entertainment, 1989. DVD.
WST 3015
Jeannina Perez
02-17-10
Teen Witch is a movie from 1989 that follows the life of a teenager around age sixteen when she mysteriously develops magical powers and becomes a witch. In the opening scene the main character, Louise, is strutting around in a tiny red dress to attract the attention of a boy she likes from her school. The first thing I noticed was Louise backing away from the boy whenever he came too close, yet she was doing everything she could to draw him closer. This is an example what the authors of Women’s Lives meant when writing about simultaneously luring men and fending them off (150). After a few minutes this whole scene turns out to be a dream. Almost all of the characters in the movie are thin and pretty, even the “nerdy” or unattractive ones. The only character I noticed to not be either of those was Louise’s little brother. The movie sent out the message that style or appearance is what makes a person. All Louise had to do was change her hair and clothes (not to mention have magical powers) and she was one of the “popular” girls. Thinking one’s appearance is more important than personality is what is meant by “self-objectification” (233). Louise thinks the only way to be popular is to look like a famous musician.
The disturbing part of the movie is that Louise is desperate to have Brad – the boy from her dream – fall in love with her. She totally ignores that there is more to life than boys. The cheerleaders also have a cheer in their locker room about boys. (I found it interesting that every high school student is a professional dancer or singer.) Whenever Louise becomes popular, she loses her best friend. This is a very common occurrence in most movies geared toward teenage audiences. This is also similar to the idea that in maturation, women need to become enemies or distance themselves from one another in order to win over men. The girls in this movie do whatever they can to attract the boys, but the boys do not have to do anything. The movie ended in a more positive way, showing that a person should not try hard to become something he or she is not in order to win others over. Near the end of the movie Louise’s father said “…it doesn't really matter how other people see you, what matters is how you see yourself.” I thought this was good for encouraging young women; however I noticed it was the father who had all of the good advice and the mother was a very flat character. I was unsure of what the mother actually did. In one scene she cooked breakfast for the family, but was wearing what appeared to be a business suit.
Work Cited
Kirk, Gwyn and Okazawa-Rey, Margo. Women's Lives. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2010. Print.
Teen Witch. Dir. Dorian Walker. Perf. Robyn Lively, Dan Gauthier, Joshua John Miller. Trans World Entertainment, 1989. DVD.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Activism Log Week 1
• Activism
After communication mostly through e-mail, we decided to split into smaller groups to try and organize our goals. A couple of the members focused mainly on the event and location, while I paired with Janet to begin designing the flyers for it. We realized after discussing it that we cannot actually make the flyers until we have the date and location. We also brainstormed different ideas for event activities. Hopefully in the next few days we will have our venue picked out so we can start spreading the word.
• Reflection
After our first attempt to organize our activities, I realized that it will be difficult to reach out to people for the cause. Many people care about animal welfare and domestic violence, but not many people can or are willing to do something about it. It may also be a challenge for us to convince people to help, since we all live in different areas in and around Orlando and it is not easy to meet. I expect to run into more challenges since I am small and a woman – not exactly what the “system” sees as fit to influence others (Johnson 68).
• Reciprocity
I am pleased with this community partner since I am involved in animal rights activism. I cannot make it to many of the BARC (Body of Animal Rights Campaigners) meetings on campus because they mostly take place during class time, so I feel this is a good way for me to still partake in something that is important to me in more ways than one. I am also gaining more experience for any future activism I may involve myself in.
Kirk, Gwyn and Okazawa-Rey, Margo. Women's Lives. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2010. Print.
After communication mostly through e-mail, we decided to split into smaller groups to try and organize our goals. A couple of the members focused mainly on the event and location, while I paired with Janet to begin designing the flyers for it. We realized after discussing it that we cannot actually make the flyers until we have the date and location. We also brainstormed different ideas for event activities. Hopefully in the next few days we will have our venue picked out so we can start spreading the word.
• Reflection
After our first attempt to organize our activities, I realized that it will be difficult to reach out to people for the cause. Many people care about animal welfare and domestic violence, but not many people can or are willing to do something about it. It may also be a challenge for us to convince people to help, since we all live in different areas in and around Orlando and it is not easy to meet. I expect to run into more challenges since I am small and a woman – not exactly what the “system” sees as fit to influence others (Johnson 68).
• Reciprocity
I am pleased with this community partner since I am involved in animal rights activism. I cannot make it to many of the BARC (Body of Animal Rights Campaigners) meetings on campus because they mostly take place during class time, so I feel this is a good way for me to still partake in something that is important to me in more ways than one. I am also gaining more experience for any future activism I may involve myself in.
Kirk, Gwyn and Okazawa-Rey, Margo. Women's Lives. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2010. Print.
Service Learning Proposal
Service Learning Proposal
For Animal Safehouse of Brevard
Janet Audette
Michael Farmer
Andrea Ondina
Krysten Sanders
Seabury Stoneburner
Katelyn Temple
February 2, 2010
Jeannina Perez
WST 3015
Community Partner: Animal Safe House of Brevard
Address: animalsafehouse@gmail.com
Contact: Arielle Schwartz
954-401-4901
Community Partner Profile:
Animal Safehouse of Brevard was formed in summer 2008 as a network of individuals committed to helping both women and pets who are victims of domestic violence. Animal Safehouse recently became a registered Florida non-profit agency which relies heavily on donations and volunteers and is in need of assistance to help as many women and pets possible.
Community Partner Mission Statement:
Animal Safehouse of Brevard is a not-for-profit effort geared towards providing temporary safe placement of pets that, like their owners, need to flee from domestic violence situations. The mission of Animal Safehouse Campus Action Network is a commitment to encouraging women to escape domestic violence by fostering and providing for their pets while they are in shelters; to raise community awareness about domestic violence and about the links between domestic violence and animal abuse.
Political and/or Social Basis for Organization:
Animal Safehouse of Brevard appeals to the desperate need for a safe place for pets who are subjected to abuse while their owners seek shelter and rehabilitation. Domestic violence can sometimes also involve animal abuse; both of these violate women’s rights and animal rights.
Community Partner Needs:
In order to be productive and to continue helping animals, this organization needs constant help from the community. Transporters, foster parents, volunteers, and vets are needed. Animal Safehouse of Brevard relies heavily on donations to keep our program running. Items needed are unopened food, collars, leashes, bowls, flea treatment, heartworm treatment, veterinary care, crates, pillows, toys, and blankets.
Memorandum
TO: Jeannina Perez
FROM:J. Audette, M. Farmer, A. Ondina, K. Sanders, S. Stoneburner, K. Temple
DATE: February 2, 2010
RE: Proposal to Write a Feasibility Report for a Service Learning Project
This is a proposal for the services needed for the benefit of the Animal Safehouse of Brevard County. We outline the services we plan to provide to the benefit of this community partner in this proposal. We will also include the connection between the goals of the Animal Safehouse and Women’s Studies.
Need for materials, time and volunteers to assist in raising money, awareness and donations to assist Animal Safe House of Brevard
The mission of the Animal Safehouse is to provide foster care to pets of women who need to leave abusive situations. Many women will not leave because they either have children or pets at home that they do not wish to abandon. By providing the foster care, the pets will be taken care of and the women can feel more confident in leaving.
Plan Proposal
We plan to provide services for our partner by partaking in the activities of the Animal Safehouse. It will benefit their cause and also provide them with extra help. We also are aiming to raise awareness. As a group, we will make flyers, table at local businesses and plan a “signing day” where interested persons will be able to sign up to foster an animal in need. We plan to table with a constant schedule with the hopes that we will also be able to collect donations.
Rationale for women’s studies
This project is relevant to women’s studies because it presents the problem with domestic violence toward women and animals.
Action
We plan to get as much information from the Animal Safehouse as possible before planning any action. We will need to record information of known families and pets in need of the Animal Safehouse’s services. Then we will take this information and use it to create flyers and any other means of spreading the word to people. We also plan to organize a “signing party”.
Timeline
Below is a schedule of events, activities and/or deadlines for our project:
1. Research/interviews – through February 13
2. Begin creating materials to use for spreading the word–through February 20
3. Organize “signing party” for Animal Safehouse – through March 6
4. Flyer – through March 13
5. Finalize “signing day” (event will also be around this date) – through March 25
6. Send thank you letters– April 2
Works cited
Animal Safehouse of Brevard. Web. 28 Jan. 2010. .
For Animal Safehouse of Brevard
Janet Audette
Michael Farmer
Andrea Ondina
Krysten Sanders
Seabury Stoneburner
Katelyn Temple
February 2, 2010
Jeannina Perez
WST 3015
Community Partner: Animal Safe House of Brevard
Address: animalsafehouse@gmail.com
Contact: Arielle Schwartz
954-401-4901
Community Partner Profile:
Animal Safehouse of Brevard was formed in summer 2008 as a network of individuals committed to helping both women and pets who are victims of domestic violence. Animal Safehouse recently became a registered Florida non-profit agency which relies heavily on donations and volunteers and is in need of assistance to help as many women and pets possible.
Community Partner Mission Statement:
Animal Safehouse of Brevard is a not-for-profit effort geared towards providing temporary safe placement of pets that, like their owners, need to flee from domestic violence situations. The mission of Animal Safehouse Campus Action Network is a commitment to encouraging women to escape domestic violence by fostering and providing for their pets while they are in shelters; to raise community awareness about domestic violence and about the links between domestic violence and animal abuse.
Political and/or Social Basis for Organization:
Animal Safehouse of Brevard appeals to the desperate need for a safe place for pets who are subjected to abuse while their owners seek shelter and rehabilitation. Domestic violence can sometimes also involve animal abuse; both of these violate women’s rights and animal rights.
Community Partner Needs:
In order to be productive and to continue helping animals, this organization needs constant help from the community. Transporters, foster parents, volunteers, and vets are needed. Animal Safehouse of Brevard relies heavily on donations to keep our program running. Items needed are unopened food, collars, leashes, bowls, flea treatment, heartworm treatment, veterinary care, crates, pillows, toys, and blankets.
Memorandum
TO: Jeannina Perez
FROM:J. Audette, M. Farmer, A. Ondina, K. Sanders, S. Stoneburner, K. Temple
DATE: February 2, 2010
RE: Proposal to Write a Feasibility Report for a Service Learning Project
This is a proposal for the services needed for the benefit of the Animal Safehouse of Brevard County. We outline the services we plan to provide to the benefit of this community partner in this proposal. We will also include the connection between the goals of the Animal Safehouse and Women’s Studies.
Need for materials, time and volunteers to assist in raising money, awareness and donations to assist Animal Safe House of Brevard
The mission of the Animal Safehouse is to provide foster care to pets of women who need to leave abusive situations. Many women will not leave because they either have children or pets at home that they do not wish to abandon. By providing the foster care, the pets will be taken care of and the women can feel more confident in leaving.
Plan Proposal
We plan to provide services for our partner by partaking in the activities of the Animal Safehouse. It will benefit their cause and also provide them with extra help. We also are aiming to raise awareness. As a group, we will make flyers, table at local businesses and plan a “signing day” where interested persons will be able to sign up to foster an animal in need. We plan to table with a constant schedule with the hopes that we will also be able to collect donations.
Rationale for women’s studies
This project is relevant to women’s studies because it presents the problem with domestic violence toward women and animals.
Action
We plan to get as much information from the Animal Safehouse as possible before planning any action. We will need to record information of known families and pets in need of the Animal Safehouse’s services. Then we will take this information and use it to create flyers and any other means of spreading the word to people. We also plan to organize a “signing party”.
Timeline
Below is a schedule of events, activities and/or deadlines for our project:
1. Research/interviews – through February 13
2. Begin creating materials to use for spreading the word–through February 20
3. Organize “signing party” for Animal Safehouse – through March 6
4. Flyer – through March 13
5. Finalize “signing day” (event will also be around this date) – through March 25
6. Send thank you letters– April 2
Works cited
Animal Safehouse of Brevard. Web. 28 Jan. 2010. .
Monday, February 8, 2010
Advertisements: Yoga and Ballet are the same, right?
Krysten Sanders
WST 3015
Jeannina Perez
02-08-10
The selected photographs are from an advertisement for American Apparel clothing.
In the advertisement labeled Stretch, the model is relaxed on a couch, seemingly hairless, thin with no expression on her face, and wearing a white outfit. The first thing noticeable is that she is not stretching; so how can the advertisers prove that the outfit stretches? The second may be the thought of how many women would actually be comfortable in this outfit. The bones in her chest stick out, the front of the top is extremely low-cut, and yes – her nipples are visible. This along with her positioning says “I’m sexy and flexible and if you wear this outfit you will be too.” Further pressuring those who view this advertisement into the idea of what sexy actually is, and that there is a need to be “sexy.”
In the advertisement labeled Yoga, the model is in an awkward position on a couch. It is obviously an attempt to sell the outfit, but the title is yoga. However that position does not look like it is from yoga, nor is it popular to practice yoga on a couch. She is also not focusing on anything except straining her neck to face the camera. Again she has no expression. She appears to be passive, weak, or vulnerable. The advertisement may be implying a sport, but it looks sexual. It is similar to a bondage position. This style of posing and her small stature are implying that women are objects. The woman is beneath the camera and she is looking up as if to be of a lower status. “Dominant U.S. culture often reduces women to bodies, valuing us only as sex objects or as bearers of children…The objectification and commodification of women in advertising pave the way for women’s dismemberment (literal and figurative) in pornography” (Kirk, Okazawa-Rey 208).
Another implication is that only thin white women practice yoga, when actually people of all shapes, sizes, sexes, and colors do. Where is the advertisement for men’s yoga apparel? Or does practicing yoga make one a “girlie man”(Seely 82)? This advertisement is also incorrect in assuming that all thin white women who practice yoga would be comfortable in such an outfit. The majority of popular yoga apparel is stretch sweat pants (not pantyhose) and stretch tank shirts or t-shirts (not see-through undershirts). This style is similar to (what is commonly assumed to be) ballet apparel. However, ballet is known for having a negative influence on women of all ages. It pressures women into feeling the need to stay thin and light, but yoga stresses flexibility and stress-relief. The only thing missing from these photographs is a light pink tutu.
Work Cited
Seely, Megan. Fight Like a Girl. New York: New York University Press, 2007. Print.
Kirk, Gwyn and Okazawa-Rey, Margo. Women's Lives. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2010. Print.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Discussion Abstract: A Movement for Everyone
Krysten Sanders
WST 3015
Jeannina Perez
02-02-10
Seely, Megan. Fight Like a Girl: How to be a Fearless Feminist. New York University Press, New York, 2007. 59-92, A Movement for Everyone. 2 Feb. 2010.
Seely begins this chapter with a short discussion of how much has been changed by women over the years, but women still remain divided among themselves. This division leads into her first point of racism. According to Seely, racism is “a belief or doctrine that inherent differences among the various human races determine cultural or individual achievement, usu. involving the idea that one’s race is superior” (Seely 60). A myth is presented that “women of color are not involved in the women’s movement” (Seely 60). She claims that the movement involves everyone, as the title of the chapter suggests and provides personal experiences with racism being a white woman. A topic covered is the state of being “colorblind.” She suggests that it is not helpful to ignore race because then people will ignore the challenges that come with racism and the “importance of celebrating our differences” (Seely 60). Another point is made that everyone in some way is racist, whether they realize it or not. People fear offending one another and in the process fail to communicate because of it. She suggests that everyone needs to “share the struggle” (Seely 62). She brings up the subject of “white guilt” as a problem that is preventing people from joining together (Seely 64). Her advice for this problem is to “Get honest with yourself” (Seely 67).
Another topic covered is partnership among people from different generations. She suggests that being older does not mean one has more or better experience. She defines mentoring as “an exchange, an egalitarian relationship based upon support and collaboration” (Seely 69). Mentoring one another does not mean that the foremothers tell the newer feminists what to do, but guide them and cooperate with them at the same time. There is a generation gap however, and according to Seely many feminists may stay away from mainstream groups because they may not be representing them how they want (Seely 70). She stresses partnership and learning from one another despite age differences and experience.
Disability rights and GBTQQI rights are also relevant to feminism in this chapter. “Women with disabilities earn between 49 and 55 percent less than their male counterparts” (Seely 74). Seely says that a major problem for women with disabilities is access. On the topic of GBTQQI, feminist does not equal lesbian, it represents all people. However, there are beliefs discriminating against anyone that is not heterosexual and the women’s movement needs to work against this discrimination as well.
Furthermore, men are also vital to the movement. There is a “cult of masculinity” in the society that pressures men into being narrowly categorized (Seely 81). Seely says that women of the movement should welcome men and incorporate them and men need to “stop expecting women will work it out for them” (Seely 82). She claims that feminism affects men because any man not seen as “masculine” is a “gay” or “girlie” man, not a “real” man (Seely 82).
The main point of this chapter is to bring about partnership among people from every background to be involved in the movement – based on race, gender, ability, age, or sexuality.
WST 3015
Jeannina Perez
02-02-10
Seely, Megan. Fight Like a Girl: How to be a Fearless Feminist. New York University Press, New York, 2007. 59-92, A Movement for Everyone. 2 Feb. 2010.
Seely begins this chapter with a short discussion of how much has been changed by women over the years, but women still remain divided among themselves. This division leads into her first point of racism. According to Seely, racism is “a belief or doctrine that inherent differences among the various human races determine cultural or individual achievement, usu. involving the idea that one’s race is superior” (Seely 60). A myth is presented that “women of color are not involved in the women’s movement” (Seely 60). She claims that the movement involves everyone, as the title of the chapter suggests and provides personal experiences with racism being a white woman. A topic covered is the state of being “colorblind.” She suggests that it is not helpful to ignore race because then people will ignore the challenges that come with racism and the “importance of celebrating our differences” (Seely 60). Another point is made that everyone in some way is racist, whether they realize it or not. People fear offending one another and in the process fail to communicate because of it. She suggests that everyone needs to “share the struggle” (Seely 62). She brings up the subject of “white guilt” as a problem that is preventing people from joining together (Seely 64). Her advice for this problem is to “Get honest with yourself” (Seely 67).
Another topic covered is partnership among people from different generations. She suggests that being older does not mean one has more or better experience. She defines mentoring as “an exchange, an egalitarian relationship based upon support and collaboration” (Seely 69). Mentoring one another does not mean that the foremothers tell the newer feminists what to do, but guide them and cooperate with them at the same time. There is a generation gap however, and according to Seely many feminists may stay away from mainstream groups because they may not be representing them how they want (Seely 70). She stresses partnership and learning from one another despite age differences and experience.
Disability rights and GBTQQI rights are also relevant to feminism in this chapter. “Women with disabilities earn between 49 and 55 percent less than their male counterparts” (Seely 74). Seely says that a major problem for women with disabilities is access. On the topic of GBTQQI, feminist does not equal lesbian, it represents all people. However, there are beliefs discriminating against anyone that is not heterosexual and the women’s movement needs to work against this discrimination as well.
Furthermore, men are also vital to the movement. There is a “cult of masculinity” in the society that pressures men into being narrowly categorized (Seely 81). Seely says that women of the movement should welcome men and incorporate them and men need to “stop expecting women will work it out for them” (Seely 82). She claims that feminism affects men because any man not seen as “masculine” is a “gay” or “girlie” man, not a “real” man (Seely 82).
The main point of this chapter is to bring about partnership among people from every background to be involved in the movement – based on race, gender, ability, age, or sexuality.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Sisters to sisters: Mary Poppins vs. Iron Jawed Angels
Krysten Sanders
Jeannina Perez
WST 3015 Intro to Women’s Studies
February 1, 2010
It had been years since I actually last watched Mary Poppins. Watching this movie as a child and then again as an adult led to different interpretations. It is targeted at younger audiences with the colorful musical numbers and magic. When I was a child I only noticed these things. I would sing the songs and pretend that I had the power to jump through pictures. I never actually realized the underlying messages in the movie.
In the first scene after the original nanny decides to leave, Mrs. Banks – the mother – arrives home singing and cheerful about her suffragist parade. It is then brought to an end when she and her maids discuss Mr. Banks arrival at home. They have to put away her sash and stop the singing and parading around the house. The wife is submissive to the husband’s authority. It is as if she is only pretending to actually care about the suffrage movement. When they decide they need a new nanny for the children, Mr. Banks writes his own advertisement for a strict and orderly nanny. The children also have their own advertisement for someone who is fun and pretty. In this scene, Mrs. Banks asks her husband to listen to the children but her opinion does not matter in this household. Instead of challenging her husband she allows him to tear up the children’s letter and throw it to the fireplace. In one way it shows the husband being above and in control of the wife, but in a child’s point of view it shows father as mean and not caring in any way. He does not think of it as his duty to raise his children, but a woman’s. For the remainder of the movie, Mrs. Banks is portrayed as a pretty rich woman with only one emotion. “Though we adore men individually, we agree that as a group they’re rather stupid.” This is part of Mrs. Banks’ song in the beginning of Mary Poppins. This reminds me of the quote “This awareness is disturbing and makes her apt to speak up about her experiences, but it doesn’t make her hate men” (Seely 3).
The movie Iron Jawed Angels is opposite of this idea of happy women parading around and then going home to serve the husband. In one scene a woman is shown as disappointing her husband by joining the movement. Unlike Mrs. Banks, this woman challenges her husband. The other women in the story also show a wide range of emotions in contrast to the Disney wife. This movie would be unsettling to show to a child; it would be considered inappropriate. The movement is not sugar-coated to appeal to anyone. It is more factual and realistic – and there are no musical numbers.
I understand that these movies show a different point-of-view; however they are targeted at different audiences and created during different times in history.
Work Cited
Seely, Megan. Fight Like a Girl. New York: New York University Press, 2007. Print.
Jeannina Perez
WST 3015 Intro to Women’s Studies
February 1, 2010
It had been years since I actually last watched Mary Poppins. Watching this movie as a child and then again as an adult led to different interpretations. It is targeted at younger audiences with the colorful musical numbers and magic. When I was a child I only noticed these things. I would sing the songs and pretend that I had the power to jump through pictures. I never actually realized the underlying messages in the movie.
In the first scene after the original nanny decides to leave, Mrs. Banks – the mother – arrives home singing and cheerful about her suffragist parade. It is then brought to an end when she and her maids discuss Mr. Banks arrival at home. They have to put away her sash and stop the singing and parading around the house. The wife is submissive to the husband’s authority. It is as if she is only pretending to actually care about the suffrage movement. When they decide they need a new nanny for the children, Mr. Banks writes his own advertisement for a strict and orderly nanny. The children also have their own advertisement for someone who is fun and pretty. In this scene, Mrs. Banks asks her husband to listen to the children but her opinion does not matter in this household. Instead of challenging her husband she allows him to tear up the children’s letter and throw it to the fireplace. In one way it shows the husband being above and in control of the wife, but in a child’s point of view it shows father as mean and not caring in any way. He does not think of it as his duty to raise his children, but a woman’s. For the remainder of the movie, Mrs. Banks is portrayed as a pretty rich woman with only one emotion. “Though we adore men individually, we agree that as a group they’re rather stupid.” This is part of Mrs. Banks’ song in the beginning of Mary Poppins. This reminds me of the quote “This awareness is disturbing and makes her apt to speak up about her experiences, but it doesn’t make her hate men” (Seely 3).
The movie Iron Jawed Angels is opposite of this idea of happy women parading around and then going home to serve the husband. In one scene a woman is shown as disappointing her husband by joining the movement. Unlike Mrs. Banks, this woman challenges her husband. The other women in the story also show a wide range of emotions in contrast to the Disney wife. This movie would be unsettling to show to a child; it would be considered inappropriate. The movement is not sugar-coated to appeal to anyone. It is more factual and realistic – and there are no musical numbers.
I understand that these movies show a different point-of-view; however they are targeted at different audiences and created during different times in history.
Work Cited
Seely, Megan. Fight Like a Girl. New York: New York University Press, 2007. Print.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Introduction
My name is Krysten and I am in my third year at UCF. My major is Anthropology. I'm interested in Women's Studies because obviously anthropology is a study of humans and this class falls into that category in a way. I'm also interested in the way women's roles have changed throughout history and different points-of-view of this. Right now I am part of the Body of Animal Rights Campaigners at UCF and (when I have the time) partake in the various activities involved. These can vary from protests to giving away vegan/vegetarian food. My favorite woman in history is Hatshepsut, the woman who ruled (successfully) in ancient Egypt as Pharaoh (King, NOT Queen). This goes along with my love for Egyptian history as well. I am definitely looking forward to this class.
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