Introduction to feminism

 

Introduction to feminism: blog tasks

Create a new blogpost called 'Introduction to Feminism' and complete the following tasks.

Everyday Sexism

Watch the Everyday Sexism TED talk from Laura Bates (linked above) and answer the following questions:

1) Why did Laura Bates start the Everyday Sexism project?

She had been sexually assaulted and experienced harassment 3 times in a week which caused her to speak out and ask other women if they had experienced it. When she found out that they had, she set up a website where women and men could share their experiences.

2) How does the Everyday Sexism project link to the concept of post-feminism? Is feminism still required in western societies?

It proves that feminism is still needed as women are still treated unfairly and harassed. 

3) Why was new technology essential to the success of the Everyday Sexism project?

Women and men can upload their stories from their own phone and it can be shared worldwide.

4) Will there be a point in the future when the Everyday Sexism project is not required? What is YOUR view on the future of feminism?

Probably not, there is so much hatred and toxic masculinity and its very sad and horrible what people say and do.

Media Magazine: The fourth wave?

Read the article: The Fourth Wave? Feminism in the Digital Age in MM55 (p64). You'll find the article in our Media Magazine archive here.

1) Summarise the questions in the first two sub-headings: What is networked feminism? Why is it a problem?

Networked feminism aims to tackle social equality issues found both on, and using, modern technology. The difference in today’s society is that in the fast-paced world of technological development, feminism can be left behind.

2) What are the four waves of feminism? Do you agree that we are in a fourth wave of ‘networked feminism’? 

1st wave was early 20th century, suffragette movement.

2nd wave 60s-90s, reproductive rights, abortion and equal pay

3rd wave- 90s , reclaiming sexuality, standing up to sexism in media.

4th wave 2010, ongoing, use of tech.

3) Focus on the examples in the article. Write a short summary of EACH of the following: Everyday Sexism, HeForShe, FCKH8 campaign, This Girl Can.

Everyday sexism - website where people can upload their experience with sexual assault

HeForShe - HeForShe is an invitation for men and people of all genders to stand in solidarity with women to create a bold, visible and united force for gender equality

FCKCH8 - FCKH8.com is a viral video campaign combating racism, sexism and homophobia.  With an activist heart and a passionate social change mission we arm thousands of people with pro-LGBT equality, anti-racism and gender equality shirts that act as “mini-billboards” for change.

This Girl Can- encouraging women in England to be more active


4) What is your opinion with regards to feminism and new/digital media? Do you agree with the concept of a 'fourth wave' of feminism post-2010 or are recent developments like the Everyday Sexism project merely an extension of the third wave of feminism from the 1990s?

I think there is a 4th wave as technology has created a new wave. People are able to combat sexism through the media but also sexism is spread