(I know this is maybe not considered a huge or serious issue on the Women's Studies front, but every now and then, I feel there are people that need to be reminded.)
To Retail Managers Everywhere,
Learn your employees names, please. I know it is a large store, but everyone who works there is forced to wear name tags. I don't really like to wear the name tag, it gives people we are waiting on the idea that they can call us by name even if they have no idea who we are, or anything about us. It creates an odd sense of power for the customer, I think to be able to call us by name when we don't know theirs. So I'm not sure who is to benefit from us having our names plastered to our chests- I know what my name is, I sure don't need reminding. Maybe it is for the employer...
I don't think it should be a huge deal for you to learn our names. If you don't know someone's name, feel free to glance down, around the left breastal region, there should be a name tag. Remember, we know our own names, the labels can only benefit you. If there isn't one, it's clearly okay to ask. Read the name and when you acknowledge us, call us by name. Do not, I repeat, DO NOT, call us "hon", "sweetie", "dear", or perhaps most of all, "girl". By this "us", I mean women employees, who are usually cashiers under the age of 30.
We are employees, not your grandchildren. My Grampie was the only one I ever liked calling me "sweetie", because from him it was him being kind and a grampie. From an employer, it sounds condescending and demeaning to be called such things. With "hon" and "dear", the names I've found to be most commonly thrown around by managers in retail, it is not cool for you to call us that. I am not your significant other. I did not tell you it was okay to call me that, ever. In fact, I'm pretty sure every time you call me such names, I look away and cringe. Calling me by name should not create the same sense of power that it does with customers, but calling me "hon" does. Is this what you mean to do? By calling us by name every once in awhile, and NOT "hon", "sweetie" or "dear", it shows respect for us as people and as employees.
Do not, for no particular reason at all say "you go, girl" while you are passing employees. That is just creepy and weird. If we had, for example, saved a small child from disaster, still, you should never say "you go girl". It would still be creepy and weird. That one is not my experience, but one of a fellow employee, even so, I feel I can say that it is not okay to label me by a gender, don't call me the label you have given me.
Marianne
Friday, December 19, 2008
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
human/non-human
Here is an interesting little video that I watched this morning:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6r4KT8-VX0
It is not the best example but it totally makes me think of the question what defines human and what are you if you're not human..
Here are some of the lyrics from the song,
Are we human?
Or are we dancer?
My sign is vital
My hands are cold
And I'm on my knees
Looking for the answer
Are we human?
Or are we dancer?
Will your system be alright
When you dream of home tonight?
There is no message we're receiving
Let me know is your heart still beating
To the Killers, you can either be human or a dancer I guess. What I find interesting is that they include a couple of lines that signify what they think human means as well as non-human/dancer.
Something to think about.
Peace,
Kerrilynn
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6r4KT8-VX0
It is not the best example but it totally makes me think of the question what defines human and what are you if you're not human..
Here are some of the lyrics from the song,
Are we human?
Or are we dancer?
My sign is vital
My hands are cold
And I'm on my knees
Looking for the answer
Are we human?
Or are we dancer?
Will your system be alright
When you dream of home tonight?
There is no message we're receiving
Let me know is your heart still beating
To the Killers, you can either be human or a dancer I guess. What I find interesting is that they include a couple of lines that signify what they think human means as well as non-human/dancer.
Something to think about.
Peace,
Kerrilynn
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
This is kind of interesting
As you will find out, I was hesistant to post this on here ...
"The following was written by Ben Stein and recited by him on CBS Sunday Morning Commentary.
My confession:
I am a Jew, and every single one of my ancestors was Jewish. And it does not bother me even a little bit when people call those beautiful lit up, bejeweled trees, Christmas trees.. I don't feel threatened. I don't feel discriminated against. That's what they are: Christmas trees.
It doesn't bother me a bit when people say, 'Merry Christmas' to me. I don't think they are slighting me or getting ready to put me in a ghetto. In fact, I kind of like it It shows that we are all brothers and sisters celebrating this happy time of year. It doesn't bother me at all that there is a manger scene on display at a key intersection near my beach house in Malibu. If people want a crïeche, it's just as fine with me as is the Menorah a few hundred yards away.
I don't like getting pushed around for being a Jew, and I don't think Christians like getting pushed around for being Christians. I think people who believe in God are sick and tired of getting pushed around, period. I have no idea where the concept came from that America is an explicitly atheist country. I can't find it in the Constitution and I don't like it being shoved down my throat.
Or maybe I can put it another way: where did the idea come from that we should worship celebrities and we aren't allowed to worship God as we understand Him? I guess that's a sign that I'm getting old, too. But there are a lot of us who are wondering where these celebrities came from and where the America we knew went to.
In light of the many jokes we send to one another for a laugh, this is a little different: This is not intended to be a joke; it's not funny, it's intended to get you thinking.
Billy Graham's daughter was interviewed on the Early Show and Jane Clayson asked her, 'How could God let something like this happen?' (regarding Katrina) Anne Graham gave an extremely profound and insightful response. She said, 'I believe God is deeply saddened by this, just as we are, but for years we've been telling God to get out of our schools, to get out of our government and to get out of our lives. And being the gentleman He is, I believe He has calmly backed out. How can we expect God to give us His blessing and His protection if we demand He leave us alone?'
In light of recent events... terrorists attack, school shootings, etc., I think it started when Madeleine Murray O'Hare (she was murdered, her body found a few years ago) complained she didn't want prayer in our schools, and we said OK. Then someone said you'd better not read the Bible in school. The Bible says thou shalt not kill, thou shalt not steal, and love your neighbor as yourself. And we said OK.
Then Dr. Benjamin Spock said we shouldn't spank our children when they misbehave because their little personalities would be warped and we might damage their self-esteem (Dr Spock's son committed suicide). We said an expert should know what he's talking about. And we said OK.
Now we're asking ourselves why our children have no conscience, why they don't know right from wrong, and why it doesn't bother them to kill strangers, their classmates, and themselves.
Probably, if we think about it long and hard enough, we can figure it out. I think it has a great deal to do with 'WE REAP WHAT WE SOW.'
Funny how simple it is for people to trash God and then wonder why the world's going to hell. Funny how we believe what the newspapers say, but question what the Bible says. Funny how you can send 'jokes' through e-mail and they spread like wildfire but when you start sending messages regarding the Lord, people think twice about sharing. Funny how lewd, crude, vulgar and obscene articles pass freely through cyberspace, but public discussion of God is suppressed in the school and workplace.
Are you laughing yet?
Funny how when you forward this message, you will not send it to many on your address list because you're not sure what they believe, or what they will think of you for sending it.
Funny how we can be more worried about what other people think of us than what God thinks of us.
Pass it on if you think it has merit. If not then just discard it... no one will know you did. But, if you discard this thought process, don't sit back and complain about what bad shape the world is in.
My Best Regards, honestly and respectfully,
Ben Stein"
Peace,
Kerrilynn
"The following was written by Ben Stein and recited by him on CBS Sunday Morning Commentary.
My confession:
I am a Jew, and every single one of my ancestors was Jewish. And it does not bother me even a little bit when people call those beautiful lit up, bejeweled trees, Christmas trees.. I don't feel threatened. I don't feel discriminated against. That's what they are: Christmas trees.
It doesn't bother me a bit when people say, 'Merry Christmas' to me. I don't think they are slighting me or getting ready to put me in a ghetto. In fact, I kind of like it It shows that we are all brothers and sisters celebrating this happy time of year. It doesn't bother me at all that there is a manger scene on display at a key intersection near my beach house in Malibu. If people want a crïeche, it's just as fine with me as is the Menorah a few hundred yards away.
I don't like getting pushed around for being a Jew, and I don't think Christians like getting pushed around for being Christians. I think people who believe in God are sick and tired of getting pushed around, period. I have no idea where the concept came from that America is an explicitly atheist country. I can't find it in the Constitution and I don't like it being shoved down my throat.
Or maybe I can put it another way: where did the idea come from that we should worship celebrities and we aren't allowed to worship God as we understand Him? I guess that's a sign that I'm getting old, too. But there are a lot of us who are wondering where these celebrities came from and where the America we knew went to.
In light of the many jokes we send to one another for a laugh, this is a little different: This is not intended to be a joke; it's not funny, it's intended to get you thinking.
Billy Graham's daughter was interviewed on the Early Show and Jane Clayson asked her, 'How could God let something like this happen?' (regarding Katrina) Anne Graham gave an extremely profound and insightful response. She said, 'I believe God is deeply saddened by this, just as we are, but for years we've been telling God to get out of our schools, to get out of our government and to get out of our lives. And being the gentleman He is, I believe He has calmly backed out. How can we expect God to give us His blessing and His protection if we demand He leave us alone?'
In light of recent events... terrorists attack, school shootings, etc., I think it started when Madeleine Murray O'Hare (she was murdered, her body found a few years ago) complained she didn't want prayer in our schools, and we said OK. Then someone said you'd better not read the Bible in school. The Bible says thou shalt not kill, thou shalt not steal, and love your neighbor as yourself. And we said OK.
Then Dr. Benjamin Spock said we shouldn't spank our children when they misbehave because their little personalities would be warped and we might damage their self-esteem (Dr Spock's son committed suicide). We said an expert should know what he's talking about. And we said OK.
Now we're asking ourselves why our children have no conscience, why they don't know right from wrong, and why it doesn't bother them to kill strangers, their classmates, and themselves.
Probably, if we think about it long and hard enough, we can figure it out. I think it has a great deal to do with 'WE REAP WHAT WE SOW.'
Funny how simple it is for people to trash God and then wonder why the world's going to hell. Funny how we believe what the newspapers say, but question what the Bible says. Funny how you can send 'jokes' through e-mail and they spread like wildfire but when you start sending messages regarding the Lord, people think twice about sharing. Funny how lewd, crude, vulgar and obscene articles pass freely through cyberspace, but public discussion of God is suppressed in the school and workplace.
Are you laughing yet?
Funny how when you forward this message, you will not send it to many on your address list because you're not sure what they believe, or what they will think of you for sending it.
Funny how we can be more worried about what other people think of us than what God thinks of us.
Pass it on if you think it has merit. If not then just discard it... no one will know you did. But, if you discard this thought process, don't sit back and complain about what bad shape the world is in.
My Best Regards, honestly and respectfully,
Ben Stein"
Peace,
Kerrilynn
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Earlier today...
...there was a dispute between the young couple that lives above my apartment. I couldn’t hear exactly what was being said but I heard them running around, several things being thrown or knocked to the floor and the girlfriend screaming her head off. There was a lot of commotion and it just didn’t sound like a “normal” fight. I opened the door from our apartment to listen closer and could hear the girl wailing as though she had been hurt. This isn’t the first time I’ve heard this couple fight and today it sounded physical. I felt that the best thing I could do was call the police.
I called the general complaints line and the woman who answered the phone was helpful. I told her what I knew and said that I was worried something really bad was going on up there and that someone should come and check it out. She said she would send a car over immediately.
It came about twenty minutes later and two police officers went to the couple’s door. Their door is very close to mine so I could hear from my couch most of what was being said.
The girlfriend answered the door crying and they asked her, “How’s everything going up there?” She said, “Not good. We’re having a pretty big fight.” One of the police officers said, “Who is up there with you?” She replied, “My boyfriend.” The police officer then asked, “Would you like us to come up and check everything out?” She replied meekly, “No that’s okay.” The other police officers said, “Oh we had a noise complaint from your neighbours about a fight.”
I couldn’t hear what she said in reply but they asked if they could talk to the guy. He came down the stairs a few minutes later and casually said, “Hello.” They repeated most of the same questions, and then said something like, if you guys are fighting, try to keep it down so as not to disturb your neighbours and then left.
I am so aggravated at how this situation was handled. First of all, I wasn’t making a noise complaint. I didn’t call so that they couple would “keep it down,” I called because it sounded as though the girl was being hurt and because she was screaming her head off and crying loudly.
And second of all, is that all that can be done in this situation? I don’t know much about what they can legally do but I felt their questions weren’t exactly the right ones; that other questions would have made her tell what had really happened. But the police didn’t press her and took her answers as they were. The whole question period lasted only a few minutes.
Now I don’t know for sure what was happening up there but between hearing things crashing down and her screaming frantically, I would guess that it was a violent fight; one that should have been looked into more seriously. Isn’t it true that a woman who is being abused is unlikely to admit that she is?
I consider this a very serious matter and the fact that it could be so easily “taken care of” really upsets me. In response to the police officer’s questions, I half-expected the boyfriend to say, “Ok, next time I beat her up, I’ll keep it down so that I don‘t disturb my neighbours.”
I believe that there should be certain questions that police officers should ask to encourage a victim to tell what is really happening to them. Or perhaps a social worker could be present to question the victim. I’m not settled with the fact that the girlfriend today said that everything was okay and the policeman took that as truth.
Can’t something else be done?
Martha
I called the general complaints line and the woman who answered the phone was helpful. I told her what I knew and said that I was worried something really bad was going on up there and that someone should come and check it out. She said she would send a car over immediately.
It came about twenty minutes later and two police officers went to the couple’s door. Their door is very close to mine so I could hear from my couch most of what was being said.
The girlfriend answered the door crying and they asked her, “How’s everything going up there?” She said, “Not good. We’re having a pretty big fight.” One of the police officers said, “Who is up there with you?” She replied, “My boyfriend.” The police officer then asked, “Would you like us to come up and check everything out?” She replied meekly, “No that’s okay.” The other police officers said, “Oh we had a noise complaint from your neighbours about a fight.”
I couldn’t hear what she said in reply but they asked if they could talk to the guy. He came down the stairs a few minutes later and casually said, “Hello.” They repeated most of the same questions, and then said something like, if you guys are fighting, try to keep it down so as not to disturb your neighbours and then left.
I am so aggravated at how this situation was handled. First of all, I wasn’t making a noise complaint. I didn’t call so that they couple would “keep it down,” I called because it sounded as though the girl was being hurt and because she was screaming her head off and crying loudly.
And second of all, is that all that can be done in this situation? I don’t know much about what they can legally do but I felt their questions weren’t exactly the right ones; that other questions would have made her tell what had really happened. But the police didn’t press her and took her answers as they were. The whole question period lasted only a few minutes.
Now I don’t know for sure what was happening up there but between hearing things crashing down and her screaming frantically, I would guess that it was a violent fight; one that should have been looked into more seriously. Isn’t it true that a woman who is being abused is unlikely to admit that she is?
I consider this a very serious matter and the fact that it could be so easily “taken care of” really upsets me. In response to the police officer’s questions, I half-expected the boyfriend to say, “Ok, next time I beat her up, I’ll keep it down so that I don‘t disturb my neighbours.”
I believe that there should be certain questions that police officers should ask to encourage a victim to tell what is really happening to them. Or perhaps a social worker could be present to question the victim. I’m not settled with the fact that the girlfriend today said that everything was okay and the policeman took that as truth.
Can’t something else be done?
Martha
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Do you have a cyber identity?
So, after Monday's 412 class I have been continuously thinking about whether something on the Internet has the same degree of effectiveness as something that happens in 'real' life, or face to face does.
It is interesting to see the ways that people present themselves online. People have the freedom to be any character and identity that they choose and they can behave in ways that they would not in real life.
I have a really interesting like to an article. The article tells the story of a couple who met on the Internet, were then married, on the Internet and in real life, and were then divorced after finding a partner cheating on them electronically. Wow, check it out and make sure to look at the accompanying link for further info on the subject.
http://kotaku.com/5088488/second-life-marriage-ends-the-way-many-real-ones-do
Peace,
Kerrilynn
ps. I am going to create a second life account myself and keep everyone posted on the things that happen.
It is interesting to see the ways that people present themselves online. People have the freedom to be any character and identity that they choose and they can behave in ways that they would not in real life.
I have a really interesting like to an article. The article tells the story of a couple who met on the Internet, were then married, on the Internet and in real life, and were then divorced after finding a partner cheating on them electronically. Wow, check it out and make sure to look at the accompanying link for further info on the subject.
http://kotaku.com/5088488/second-life-marriage-ends-the-way-many-real-ones-do
Peace,
Kerrilynn
ps. I am going to create a second life account myself and keep everyone posted on the things that happen.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
another movie suggestion...
Today I watched Real Women Have Curves and suggest that everyone check it out!
The main character Ana (played by America Ferrara also in the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants movies and my personal favorite Ugly Betty) is going through a lot of changes in her life and is constantly being held back by her traditional and sometimes overbearing mother.
Instead of it being a "journey-type" movie where the main character discovers her beauty, Ana already knows she is beautiful so the journey she takes is one to subtly teach others this same self-love.
The movie addresses many female issues surrounding body image and the fact that though they are all women(and are constantly clumped into that category), each issue is still quite different from the other. Ana reassures herself that no matter what others say, it is her own voice that is the most important. A great message.
Although I enjoyed the movie, I did have a bit of an issue with the title. For such powerful and interesting content, the title is weak. It is strong in saying that real women are beautiful despite not having what the media portrays as the perfect body shape, but it is also weak because it fails to include all women. The title says nothing about women who don't have curves and are still challenged by those media images for one reason or another. Yes, the title rejects the media's selectiveness but it also finds itself just as exclusive. Are curveless women to be left out of both groups because they don't have the perfect body or the body of a real woman?
I suggest the title be changed to, All Women have Issues with Body-Image and That's Okay!
Rolls off the tongue nicely, doesn't it? :)
What do you guys think of the title? Inclusive, exclusive or neither?
Martha
The main character Ana (played by America Ferrara also in the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants movies and my personal favorite Ugly Betty) is going through a lot of changes in her life and is constantly being held back by her traditional and sometimes overbearing mother.
Instead of it being a "journey-type" movie where the main character discovers her beauty, Ana already knows she is beautiful so the journey she takes is one to subtly teach others this same self-love.
The movie addresses many female issues surrounding body image and the fact that though they are all women(and are constantly clumped into that category), each issue is still quite different from the other. Ana reassures herself that no matter what others say, it is her own voice that is the most important. A great message.
Although I enjoyed the movie, I did have a bit of an issue with the title. For such powerful and interesting content, the title is weak. It is strong in saying that real women are beautiful despite not having what the media portrays as the perfect body shape, but it is also weak because it fails to include all women. The title says nothing about women who don't have curves and are still challenged by those media images for one reason or another. Yes, the title rejects the media's selectiveness but it also finds itself just as exclusive. Are curveless women to be left out of both groups because they don't have the perfect body or the body of a real woman?
I suggest the title be changed to, All Women have Issues with Body-Image and That's Okay!
Rolls off the tongue nicely, doesn't it? :)
What do you guys think of the title? Inclusive, exclusive or neither?
Martha
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Hilarious Comic from my Aunt
Not really sure what this has to do with WS...but it's Women centric, and really funny, so I wanted to post it anyway!!! Enjoy :)
Erica
Erica
Film #3 - A Long Kiss Goodnight
Hello Everyone!
Just wanted to let you know about our upcoming event this Friday, November 14th!!! We will be showing Film #3 of our Babes Beyond Borders Film Series.
Presenting: A Long Kiss Goodnight
Date: Friday November 14th, 2008
Time: 4-6 pm
Place: Dawson Lounge, Main 420
Bring: Yourself, your friends, snacks to share
Note - The Women's Studies Society will be having a brief meeting before the film (starting around 3pm), so please come if you would like to contribute/help out at our upcoming events!
Thanks, See you Friday!
Erica
Just wanted to let you know about our upcoming event this Friday, November 14th!!! We will be showing Film #3 of our Babes Beyond Borders Film Series.
Presenting: A Long Kiss Goodnight
Date: Friday November 14th, 2008
Time: 4-6 pm
Place: Dawson Lounge, Main 420
Bring: Yourself, your friends, snacks to share
Note - The Women's Studies Society will be having a brief meeting before the film (starting around 3pm), so please come if you would like to contribute/help out at our upcoming events!
Thanks, See you Friday!
Erica
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Friday's Rant posted on a Saturday
This may not completely pertain to what I normally rant about on the blog...
The 'J' word, yes, J-Walking (I am still unsure of the correct definition). It is something that everyone on the planet has done at some point during their life. I was really 'ranted-off' by the article in the cadre that discusses the new fence put in place to end j-walking. I think that the money invested in the fence could have been used in many different ways to keep students safe. Anyway, here is my take on it (please not I just scuffled up some stairs and I am out of breathe):
and here is another students take...
Peace,
Kerrilynn
The 'J' word, yes, J-Walking (I am still unsure of the correct definition). It is something that everyone on the planet has done at some point during their life. I was really 'ranted-off' by the article in the cadre that discusses the new fence put in place to end j-walking. I think that the money invested in the fence could have been used in many different ways to keep students safe. Anyway, here is my take on it (please not I just scuffled up some stairs and I am out of breathe):
and here is another students take...
Peace,
Kerrilynn
What's new at the DO
I attended a meeting at the Diversity Office on Friday regarding an amazing photo contest that will soon be under way. My job is to tell three other people to submit photos of diversity on campus, but I decided to not only tell three people about the contest, but to post it on the blog in hopes of getting some more participants.
The title of the contest is 'What does diversity mean to you?', and you can find out more information about it on the DO's website: http://upei.ca/studentservices/diversity-office/
Peace,
Kerrilynn
First ever 'field research'
I decided to do my first ever 'field research' for my rave this week, so I went about asking people 'what is feminism?'
Just to include, both students gave me permission to publish these video's on the blog.
Peace,
Kerrilynn
Just to include, both students gave me permission to publish these video's on the blog.
Peace,
Kerrilynn
Friday, November 7, 2008
Movie Suggestion
Thought I'd make a quick post to recommend a film I watched last night called Finn's Girl.
Finn, the main character, is definitely a "babe beyond borders" as she is the head doctor of an abortion clinic. Throughout the movie she receives several threats and a few near death-experiences because of her profession. The movie accurately portrays the challenges surrounding abortion and has a nice twist at the end of it.
I won't tell too much about the plot but I definitely recommend checking out this film! Click on the links if you'd like more information about it!
Oh and PS It's Canadian!!
Martha
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
thinking about definitions and identities
So in the past week (less than actually - 4 days), i've had a number of different conversations with various students who've articulated some version of the following about different crosslisted courses they've taken: 'well it was a good course and all, but it's not a Women's Studies course' or 'it was a good X discipline course about women, but it wasn't a Women's Studies course' or 'i know it's a course about gender and sexuality and all, but it's not a Women's Studies course.' (Of course, i also hear the opposite p.o.v. too -- that 'such and such a course is a great WS course' :)). And i'm fascinated by this - especially since so many have also said at various times that it's hard to explain to people what Women's Studies is... So I'm interested... and wondering if we can have a discussion about this here in posts and comments? (or over beer at the Wave... both good :))
What makes something for you all 'a Women's Studies course?' What does it do that fills some criteria for you all?
Random half-formed thoughts as welcome as well-conceptualized and brilliant responses :)
Ann
What makes something for you all 'a Women's Studies course?' What does it do that fills some criteria for you all?
Random half-formed thoughts as welcome as well-conceptualized and brilliant responses :)
Ann
Pictures of the Day
I came across these pictures in an email and just had to post them. I think they are so cute.
Peace,
Kerrilynn
Delay
I know I haven't been posting my vlogs for two weeks now but do not worry this week might be filled with fun. I have been having some computer problems so my videos are not uploading correctly. Sorry ladies.
Peace,
Kerrilynn
Peace,
Kerrilynn
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
This Week...
Hello All :)
Thank you for the wonderful posts that continue to appear on our lovely little blog - it has become such a great source of sharing and communication - loving it!!!
Coming up this friday are two pretty important events for the Women's Studies Society, so I wanted to post a reminder :)
Friday October 31st, 2008
1) UPEI WST Society Montly Meeting - 1:30pm
Dawson Lounge, Main 420
2) Babes Beyond Borders Film Series - Film #2 - The Rocky Horror Picture Show
Dawson Lounge, Main 420 - 4-6pm
Popcorn and juice provided - please invite all your friends and bring snacks to
share if you so desire :)
Hope to see everyone out on friday - The meeting will be a really great opportunity to brainstorm and plan for some events for the rest of the semester/year, so it'd be great to have a large turnout so that we can have everyone's input. And of course, following our fantastic meeting will be our second film in the BBB series - so stick around afterwards!!!
See you all on friday!
Erica
Thank you for the wonderful posts that continue to appear on our lovely little blog - it has become such a great source of sharing and communication - loving it!!!
Coming up this friday are two pretty important events for the Women's Studies Society, so I wanted to post a reminder :)
Friday October 31st, 2008
1) UPEI WST Society Montly Meeting - 1:30pm
Dawson Lounge, Main 420
2) Babes Beyond Borders Film Series - Film #2 - The Rocky Horror Picture Show
Dawson Lounge, Main 420 - 4-6pm
Popcorn and juice provided - please invite all your friends and bring snacks to
share if you so desire :)
Hope to see everyone out on friday - The meeting will be a really great opportunity to brainstorm and plan for some events for the rest of the semester/year, so it'd be great to have a large turnout so that we can have everyone's input. And of course, following our fantastic meeting will be our second film in the BBB series - so stick around afterwards!!!
See you all on friday!
Erica
Sunday, October 26, 2008
so what is feminism anyway?
All right... I'm jumping in here (since I miss Kerrilynn's video rants and raves :( ) with some random thoughts gleaned over the past few weeks...
I've been thinking alot about the various bits and pieces of conversation i've either overheard or had with many WS students over the past few weeks about 'what is feminism/who is feminist'... and, as per my usual follow up questions, about what's at stake - and for whom - in those questions. This seems especially relevant and in the air these days, as even Sarah Palin has taken to using the term to describe herself - in addition to several other people, including (according to feministing.com) "Oregon NOW Vice President Linda Klinge and former Ms. magazine editor Elaine Lafferty" (wow...) supporting her and using the term to describe her. And while i certainly don't subscribe to the 'feminist checklist' school of thinking (and even if i did, i'm not sure that my checklist would be the widely adopted one :)), i - like everyone else i imagine - have my 'ok that's going too far' moments... and i have many of those about her! But i add in there too people like Laura Doyle (of The Surrendered Wife fame/infamy a few years ago), or groups like 'feminists for life' -- as example of where the term is mobilized in ways i can't get on board with.. even if i also believe in 'there are many feminisms' and 'feminism is always contextual' (historically and culturally specific, etc), and 'big tent feminism' approaches...
So i find myself wondering about how to talk about those borders to 'feminism' - for myself... for others... and how to argue against particular versions/renditions without falling back on essentialist ideas about the definitions/identity of 'feminism'... without falling back on hauling out a checklist of some sort....
But.... i also think that the fact that this term can get used for beliefs and positions that seem so problematic (backasswards even - to me at least) speaks volumes about not just the tensions around the term itself -- but about the social tensions [that was for you Kerrilynn :)] both generated in and by and around some feminist ideas and changes - and by the failures to address those. I may not agree with Laura Doyle's use of the term, but i think that she points to some very 'real' issues about hetero relationships that remain everpresent - and more than nagging in many people's/women's lives.... I may not agree with Sarah Palin's politics around reproductive rights or making women pay for rape kits (and a whole bunch of other issues!), but i think she points to the ways in which 'the public and the private' (to haul those terms out again) remain stubbornly gendered/raced/classed etc in ways that too often have remained unaddressed and even disavowed by much 'liberal' feminism....
so no conclusions here :)... but i find myself thinking that at least those popular mobilizations of the term allow us to talk about what is being (necessarily?) excluded in the stories 'we' (self-identified feminist types) tell about 'what is feminism/who is feminist'.... and surely that's a good thing??
Ann
I've been thinking alot about the various bits and pieces of conversation i've either overheard or had with many WS students over the past few weeks about 'what is feminism/who is feminist'... and, as per my usual follow up questions, about what's at stake - and for whom - in those questions. This seems especially relevant and in the air these days, as even Sarah Palin has taken to using the term to describe herself - in addition to several other people, including (according to feministing.com) "Oregon NOW Vice President Linda Klinge and former Ms. magazine editor Elaine Lafferty" (wow...) supporting her and using the term to describe her. And while i certainly don't subscribe to the 'feminist checklist' school of thinking (and even if i did, i'm not sure that my checklist would be the widely adopted one :)), i - like everyone else i imagine - have my 'ok that's going too far' moments... and i have many of those about her! But i add in there too people like Laura Doyle (of The Surrendered Wife fame/infamy a few years ago), or groups like 'feminists for life' -- as example of where the term is mobilized in ways i can't get on board with.. even if i also believe in 'there are many feminisms' and 'feminism is always contextual' (historically and culturally specific, etc), and 'big tent feminism' approaches...
So i find myself wondering about how to talk about those borders to 'feminism' - for myself... for others... and how to argue against particular versions/renditions without falling back on essentialist ideas about the definitions/identity of 'feminism'... without falling back on hauling out a checklist of some sort....
But.... i also think that the fact that this term can get used for beliefs and positions that seem so problematic (backasswards even - to me at least) speaks volumes about not just the tensions around the term itself -- but about the social tensions [that was for you Kerrilynn :)] both generated in and by and around some feminist ideas and changes - and by the failures to address those. I may not agree with Laura Doyle's use of the term, but i think that she points to some very 'real' issues about hetero relationships that remain everpresent - and more than nagging in many people's/women's lives.... I may not agree with Sarah Palin's politics around reproductive rights or making women pay for rape kits (and a whole bunch of other issues!), but i think she points to the ways in which 'the public and the private' (to haul those terms out again) remain stubbornly gendered/raced/classed etc in ways that too often have remained unaddressed and even disavowed by much 'liberal' feminism....
so no conclusions here :)... but i find myself thinking that at least those popular mobilizations of the term allow us to talk about what is being (necessarily?) excluded in the stories 'we' (self-identified feminist types) tell about 'what is feminism/who is feminist'.... and surely that's a good thing??
Ann
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Mothers
Last night's "Who's your Mama?" coffee house was an amazing event, and inspired a lot of internal thought for me about women who have influenced my life...particularly my mother. I found it very fitting then, that today in my Psychology of Women class, we talked about Mothers and Mothering. I guess I never really took very much time to realise how important my mother - and many other influential women in my life - really was until I moved 4000 km's away from home.
Last night's coffee house, and today's psych of women class, gave me two excellent opportunities to reflect on women who have inspired me. Though I never give her enough credit, my mom is one of the most amazing people I know - and I am truly blessed to have her in my life. The sacrifices she has made for me and my sister are endless, and she has made them with a smile on her face, followed by a big hug.
To whoever reads this post, I encourage you to take a few minutes (or longer) to really think about the women who influence your life. I want you to think about why they are special, and how they have helped you to become the person you are today. Maybe make a phone call or send an email after you've thought about this - because it's important to let these people know just how important they are to you.
I propose a virtual blog toast to my mom, and to all moms and women out there who continue to inspire us daily.
Cheers!
Erica
Last night's coffee house, and today's psych of women class, gave me two excellent opportunities to reflect on women who have inspired me. Though I never give her enough credit, my mom is one of the most amazing people I know - and I am truly blessed to have her in my life. The sacrifices she has made for me and my sister are endless, and she has made them with a smile on her face, followed by a big hug.
To whoever reads this post, I encourage you to take a few minutes (or longer) to really think about the women who influence your life. I want you to think about why they are special, and how they have helped you to become the person you are today. Maybe make a phone call or send an email after you've thought about this - because it's important to let these people know just how important they are to you.
I propose a virtual blog toast to my mom, and to all moms and women out there who continue to inspire us daily.
Cheers!
Erica
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
fANNtastic
Last night's who's your mama? coffee house was amazing. Here is Ann's opening.
enjoy,
Kerrilynn
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Oooopp's..
I want to publicly correct myself. I owe a big apology to Maria Durling for calling her by the wrong name in my video. Sorry Maria, you're still a phenomenal woman who helped to set up an awesome display in the library in honor of Women's History Month.
You can count on me for spelling mistakes and unclear sentences.
Peace,
Kerrilynn
You can count on me for spelling mistakes and unclear sentences.
Peace,
Kerrilynn
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Communities of Women
Last year I wrote a paper about communities of women and I want to share a piece of the paper with you before I get to my real point."Communities of women is not a new concept, rather, it is one that has been around for a long time and can be found to be represented in many different forms. Not all communities are the same but most consist of women, or people who identify as women, and most communities work to challenge ideas and raise questions about the societies they live in."
I consider myself very privileged to have the friends that I do and to know that we are all completely comfortable expressing and talking about who we are. Last night I had the chance to go out with some of my friends after the film series and we pretty much just shot the shit so to say. We talk about things, and pick them apart when deemed necessary, and I really do think that we 'work to challenge ideas and raise questions about the societies they live in.'
The reason why I am talking about this now is because I think it is important for all women to have this type of community. It does not necessarily have to be with other women, but just a support system where you can vent and be yourself.
Women's History Month is a very good to time embrace a community and become involved. Talk with others about how important your community is to you. Raise questions, solve problems, just open your mind to new ideas. If you don't have this type of community I recommend that you make one, or hell, you can join mine. But seriously, enjoy who you are and what you do and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
Peace,
Kerrilynn
Thelma & Louise Feedback
It is first thing in the morning for me so I give a lot of and's and um's.
Peace,
Kerrilynn
Friday, October 17, 2008
Rethinking Media's Portrayl of Cosmetic Surgery
Dear Nip/Tuck,
I am still devoted to watching the show but please make it a little more viewer friendly.
Peace,
Kerrilynn
My Monumental Woman
Yah to Women's History Month, October 2008! Tell us about some of the amazing women who have inspired you in your life.
Peace,
Kerrilynn
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Updates! Updates! Updates!
Hello Everyone!
First off, I wanted to say how EXCITING it is to see how many people are getting involved with the blog - BIG thank you to Kerrilynn for her excellent video posts and Friday rants! Thank you to all who have contributed so far as well!
The UPEI Women's Studies Society will be hosting its FIRST EVENT this friday, October 17th - The first film in a series titled "Babes Beyond Borders"!!!! We will be showing THELMA & LOUISE at 4pm in the Dawson Lounge (Main 420) - all are welcome - bring your friends and your snacks, and enjoy the film!
Thanks to all who showed up for the "Wear Black for the Arts" on friday afternoon in the Quad - it was great to see everyone out there doing what they love to do - ART!!!! Hopefully some of the bigshots in Ottawa will listen for a change!
The UPEI WST Society monthly meeting will be held on Friday, October 31st @ 1:30 p.m. in the Dawson Lounge - everyone welcome!! The meeting will be followed with a screening of our 2nd film in our "Babes Beyond Borders" series from 4-6, film TBA.
That's all for now, thanks again for making this blog such a success! If you are interested in posting and have yet to recieve the login info, please contact upei_wst_society@hotmail.com
Hope everyone had a fantastic thanksgiving!
Erica
First off, I wanted to say how EXCITING it is to see how many people are getting involved with the blog - BIG thank you to Kerrilynn for her excellent video posts and Friday rants! Thank you to all who have contributed so far as well!
The UPEI Women's Studies Society will be hosting its FIRST EVENT this friday, October 17th - The first film in a series titled "Babes Beyond Borders"!!!! We will be showing THELMA & LOUISE at 4pm in the Dawson Lounge (Main 420) - all are welcome - bring your friends and your snacks, and enjoy the film!
Thanks to all who showed up for the "Wear Black for the Arts" on friday afternoon in the Quad - it was great to see everyone out there doing what they love to do - ART!!!! Hopefully some of the bigshots in Ottawa will listen for a change!
The UPEI WST Society monthly meeting will be held on Friday, October 31st @ 1:30 p.m. in the Dawson Lounge - everyone welcome!! The meeting will be followed with a screening of our 2nd film in our "Babes Beyond Borders" series from 4-6, film TBA.
That's all for now, thanks again for making this blog such a success! If you are interested in posting and have yet to recieve the login info, please contact upei_wst_society@hotmail.com
Hope everyone had a fantastic thanksgiving!
Erica
Friday, October 10, 2008
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
cool youtube clips
check out this great project from the Antigone Foundation
http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=oT1VxL_wpT8
and
http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=k7Bf8io8okw&feature=related
gives lots of ideas for possible projects!
http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=oT1VxL_wpT8
and
http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=k7Bf8io8okw&feature=related
gives lots of ideas for possible projects!
Saturday, October 4, 2008
She is good at beating around the bush
First check out this quick video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-STiYgxxtRo
I don't know much about the Sarah Palin buzz that seems to be circulating around conversations these days, but I do know from watching the video a little but about her:
1. She believes women have every opportunity that men have. This is obviously only pertaining to her home and native land Alaska because there are many women in this world who are still subject to being considered lesser then men.
2. She is glad that she grew up in a family where gender was not an issue and she was permitted, as a female, to hunt, fish, and chop wood like men. Hmmm... there is much to say about this one.. including attributing gender to activities and tasks.
3. She believes that women should be in control of their own body, but is against the choice to use to morning after pill or to get an abortion. That is a little confusing.
4. She is accepting of all relationship forms. Her best friend just happens to be gay but don't worry she does not look at this person as her gay friend, rather, a good friend. Way to leave out an individuals sense of individuality Ms. Palin. Did you ever think that maybe that person wants to be identified as gay?
Can any one else think of some more things she is good at?
Peace,
Kerrilynn
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-STiYgxxtRo
I don't know much about the Sarah Palin buzz that seems to be circulating around conversations these days, but I do know from watching the video a little but about her:
1. She believes women have every opportunity that men have. This is obviously only pertaining to her home and native land Alaska because there are many women in this world who are still subject to being considered lesser then men.
2. She is glad that she grew up in a family where gender was not an issue and she was permitted, as a female, to hunt, fish, and chop wood like men. Hmmm... there is much to say about this one.. including attributing gender to activities and tasks.
3. She believes that women should be in control of their own body, but is against the choice to use to morning after pill or to get an abortion. That is a little confusing.
4. She is accepting of all relationship forms. Her best friend just happens to be gay but don't worry she does not look at this person as her gay friend, rather, a good friend. Way to leave out an individuals sense of individuality Ms. Palin. Did you ever think that maybe that person wants to be identified as gay?
Can any one else think of some more things she is good at?
Peace,
Kerrilynn
First Feminist Rant
Sometimes it is good to vent, other times, it is good to tell the truth.
I never really understood the degree to which I developed a hate towards certain video games until I had the joy of stumbling across this one. What happened to the good games?
Peace,
Kerrilynn
As Ann would say, tres cool!
This is my first time, cut me some slack. It is a little fuzzy.
Peace,
Kerrilynn
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Welcome to the UPEI WST Society Blog!
Hello All :)
Welcome to the UPEI Women's Studies Society Blog!
The purpose of this blog is to extend the UPEI Women's Studies Society community - to share awesome articles, ideas, thoughts, ANYTHING at all that you find fascinating, important, or just downright fantastic. Sharing ideas, exploring "taboo" areas, and expanding on concepts from class = the purpose of this blog.
If you wish to post something awesome/interesting/important, please email:
upei_wst_society@hotmail.com to recieve access information.
Hope you enjoy!
Erica
Welcome to the UPEI Women's Studies Society Blog!
The purpose of this blog is to extend the UPEI Women's Studies Society community - to share awesome articles, ideas, thoughts, ANYTHING at all that you find fascinating, important, or just downright fantastic. Sharing ideas, exploring "taboo" areas, and expanding on concepts from class = the purpose of this blog.
If you wish to post something awesome/interesting/important, please email:
upei_wst_society@hotmail.com to recieve access information.
Hope you enjoy!
Erica
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