A Day with Feminism
At the end of the article “Manifesta: Young Women, Feminism, and the Future,” Baumgardner and Richards give a snapshot of a day in a world where society abides by feminist values. Citizens of this world, however, do not think of their way of life as a feminist way of life, it is just the cultural norm. I found the attributes of this world extremely appealing. I am sure many would perceive some of the suggestions as far-fetched, but I cannot comprehend why these are not a given and have not always been an imperative part of our society.
Some of the elements of the ”day with feminism,” which particularly resonated with me, include first that “co-parenting is a given.” This challenges the traditional female stereotype of the housewife and diligent mother and confronts the sexist societal structure of separate spheres. Focusing on equality in all realms of life, not only should women take on traditional male roles, the process should function in the reverse, with males undertaking traditional female responsibilities.
Also, I found the discussion of children’s last names very refreshing: the idea that children are just as likely to have a hyphenated last name or a new name as they are to have the father’s or mother’s name. I have always found fault with the patriarchal naming system in our society. As tradition in western culture, it is easy to ignore and claim, “that this is just how it is.” For me, I find it hard to ignore the greater implications it has: serving a constant reminder of our society’s sexist attitude and of patriarchal dominance. It is reminiscent of a time when daughters went from the control of their fathers to that of their husbands, exchanging the paternal chains for those of the husband, with the change in last name to signify the transaction. There comes a point when society has to recognize injustice, despite its establishment in societal structures and make the change. The feminist world embodies all aspects of that change.
Intrigued by the idea of a feminist world, I researched other attempts at visualizing this world. Much of the information I gathered off of the general Internet was not as thoughtful as the Baumgardner and Richards piece. Much of the feminist propaganda available to people at first glance on the Internet or YouTube is irrational with an unearned feminist stamp. One article I found via the Gender Agenda website, “What Would an Ideal Feminist World Look Like?” begins with: “Women would RULE and men would have to crawl around at our feet getting us chocolate.” Working against the mission of the feminist movement, this campaign does not seek equality; it seeks female dominance. The general feminist movement is wise enough to see the hypocrisy of demanding the end of patriarchy, just for the sake of matriarchy installation. A second description of this feminist world is, “A land of bra burning, hairy lesbians out to get YOU!” This destructs the feminist movement by validating the concerns of anti-feminist movements and confirming their negative stereotypes of feminists.
A second view of a feminist world is portrayed in a YouTube video titled, “TrueTube: Feminism- Martriarchal World.” Again, this portrayal does not suggest equality; it suggests a power change of hands. The results of this power shift are quite dramatic and exaggerate sexist female stereotypes. The movie clip suggests that there would be less competition and conflict with females in power, because issues would be settled with conversation and negotiation. This sounds promising, however the way the “conversation and negotiation” is depicted resembles nothing more than a prissy tea party. The leaders try to resolve issues by giving compliments to the opposition, “Why that is a really lovely hat there, where ever did you get it.” This trivializes women, for even given a position of power they cannot discuss real issues. Women in power still chat about simplistic housewife small talk. The only reason the clip suggests this works is because both sides of women in conflict are equally as simplistic.
While the portrayal of a feminist world can be extremely empowering, as the Baumgardner and Richards article proves, when unformed others try to present such a world it can have adverse effects. The irrational fears of anti-feminists can be exacerbated and the negative stereotypes that are supposed to be erased can be highlighted. While the more empowering episode has its shortfalls, some idealistic and unrealistic aspects, the majority of the outlined features in the Baumgardner and Richards article set the bar for feminist objectives.
Discussion Questions:
1 1) Although many of the aspects of a “Feminist World” seem obvious to feminists, would any of these realistically be achieved?
2 2) Do some of the “Feminist World” characteristics seem to go beyond the scope of the traditional feminist mission? (eg. Discussions of health care)
3) While some groups may call themselves “feminist groups,” to me they seem to be doing harm to the feminist movement, do you agree? (Like the Gender Agenda)
4) Do you think the major feminist organizations find fault with these smaller groups that may misrepresent feminist goals? Could this contribute to the rift in the feminist movement?
http://www.gender-agenda.org.uk/discuss/68/what-would-an-ideal-feminist-world-look-like/
