There is this stigma that people go through where they must adhere to a specific gender stereotype. Women must look put together, are the caregivers of the household, must adhere to lady like standards, and numerous other qualifications that women must follow in modern society. One of the main reasons for women to follow these “rules” in life is because social media has and continues to influence women on what the “perfect” body looks like, how the “perfect” woman should act, and how to look beautiful. Women and girls should embrace who they truly are, and should not give in to peer pressure, or to the media. To me, it is an insult when men say to women, "You should smile more," or "You'd look prettier if you did ___." There should be no reason why anyone, especially a man, should make a comment on someone's appearance. Considering we live in 2017, one would think that society has changed in some ways, but the fact of the matter is, we are engrained to act a certain way since birth.
When we were babies, and the doctor said “Oh, it’s a girl!” our parents’ minds automatically thought of pink, pink, pink. Even though not all parents think this way like mine did, there are those who still dress their little girls in pink outfits with bow ties, and boys in blue to represent how “manly” they are. But I’m going to be honest when I say babies are just babies. A baby cannot be manly, and a baby does not care what colors look good on them, but a baby is trying to experience the world for the first time. Babies need to have the ability to figure things out for their own, without people forcing gender stereotypes on them.
WEEK 3
Women have always been sexualized in the society. The simple fact is, when we look at posters, or buses, or magazine, or social media, we will see women's bodies being used to sell some type of product, or to gain men's attention for sexual desires. If we looked at posters, we will most likely see a woman's bare body than a man's, and what makes that okay? Since when is it socially acceptable to show off women's bodies in a demeaning way, and say that it is used for "fashion," or as an "advertisement?" Although it might seem absurd to ask these questions, these questions are simply normal to ask when the social standard for men and women are completely different.
The problem with having women's bodies be exploited over social media for example is that it is out in the world forever, and it does not set a good example for young girls. These girls will grow up to think that it is okay for women's bodies to be treated as objects, when in reality, our bodies are powerful, and can endure childbirth and menstrual cycles. Where is the recognition for what women's bodies can really do?
Although there is still a lot of sexism in today's society, there are still many women who are breaking free of the social norms, and taking a stand. Women are not shaving, showing their stretch marks, and are not striving towards that "model" figure. These women are posting and sharing their stories all over social media, and that is exactly what type of body image people should strive for. Being confident in one's own body should be the ultimate goal, instead of striving for the figures we see in advertisements. If women embrace their own individual beauty, especially with ads, such as American Eagle clothing line, then the future generation will continue to speak for themselves, and embrace their bodies for how they truly look like.
WEEK 4
My mother was 39 when I was born, and was already married for 2 years. She had been working at the same job for almost 15 years, and was financially stable. Obviously when a 38-year-old woman gets pregnant, there are some concerns for the child, but many tests were run, and nothing was out of the ordinary. I think growing up, my mother knew she was not the youngest with a small child, and she did not have the same energy as the 20-something year old mothers did. I always asked her why she never had another child after me, and she simply said, “Because I was too old,” which clearly makes a lot of sense.
The way I view myself is probably similar to my mother. I want to finish my education, and get my masters, and most likely my PhD. I want to have a career and be my own person, instead of marrying young and having multiple children. At almost 20, I say to myself that I have plenty of time to find my way, but in the back of my mind, I think to when my paternal grandmother got married at 19, and had 4 kids, all before she was 25, and 15 years later when she got pregnant again, it was her decision to have an abortion (and a legal one at that since Roe vs. Wade allowed women to have the legal right to have an abortion), as my grandparents could not afford to have another child.
From having a child, or not having a child, it is always the women’s right to choose. She should have the say over her own body. I have always felt this way, and I will always think this way. I certainly felt those feelings when I walked in the Women’s March in Los Angeles. Everything that is happening in the world today is creating history, and being a part of history makes shows those that a single act can make a difference. People should not simply stand by the sidelines, but they should speak up, or show their support for what really matters because if no now speaks up, then people will continue to make the same mistakes in the future.
I have found a website with a video that shows people from around the world supporting women, and supporting their fight against the current presidential election. Support for Women from Around the World
WEEK 5
I believe that women deserve the right to earn equal pay, and to be recognized for their actions. Many women are looked down upon constantly, and are belittled in the workforce, or while walking down the street. If one were to look at moms alone, women are either criticized for working constantly at an office, instead of spending time with their children, or the reverse, where women are criticized for "not having a real job" and staying at home. If a mother wants to stay at home and care for her children, she shouldn't be treated any less than a mother, and if she wants to go to work, she not be criticized for wanting a career.There is this idea that if women want to work, then they do not want a family, or if they want a family, then they should not be working. Living in the 21st Century, you would think that people would have changed their point of views since the 50's. In reality, it seems as though many people still have that mind set where women are only capable of birthing children. If we look at moms who want to stay at home, we can see that they working nonstop. Instead of those who go to an office, for example, from 9am-5pm, those people can then go back home and relax. Stay-at-home moms, on the other hand, have no breaks, and are constantly working without getting the proper recognition that they deserve.
No natter what path a woman or mom chooses in her life, she should know that there is no wrong decision, and no matter what she does in life, she will make the most of it, and show the world that she is an independent woman who can make it on her own, or with her partner, or as a parent. This article below should help with how important a Stay-At-Home Mom is...
What I always think about when domestic violence comes up in a conversation is how women do not have to be in a physically abusive relationship to be in a domestic relationship. There are many women who are mentally abused, which can lead to physical harm, and can cause those women to seek medical attention. I also know that there are many people in the world who believe that those women who do not leave a violent relationship are "stupid" for not leaving that toxic relationship, but the one thing people need to realize is, is it is not as simple as it may seem. What women in these situations need is support. Sometimes these women are in a domestic relationship for numerous years, and when they have the courage to take action, what they do not need to hear is "How come you waited so long to do something about it?" People who are in domestic relationships need someone they can count on, not someone who will put them down. Although I have not known anyone personally who has been in a violent relationship, I know what actions to take, and what support systems are available for those who are in one. Knowing someone who is in a domestic relationship does not mean that you know someone who is weak and could not handle themselves, but knowing someone in that situation means you are in a presence of a fighter. If there is one thing that I have learned from this lecture, is that ANYONE can be in an abusive relationship, and it is not our job to be judgmental, but we are there to be supportive and to help in whichever way we can.
WEEK 7
I had never known that lesbian women have different health than straight women. I had honestly believed that all women were the same, and if they were not, it certainly was not based off of their sexual orientation. Growing up, I knew many lesbian women, as some of them were my neighbors. I also knew gay men growing up, so for me, the LGBTQ community was not new for me. What became new in this lecture, however, was the history that came with lesbianism. The word of lesbian comes from the Greek island of Lesbos, home to the 6th century BCE poet Sappho. What is also interesting is that lesbian is referred to any aspect of Lesbos, including a type of wine.
The fact that women are discriminated against and are being judged on their sexual orientation when seeking health care, is what is contributing to their poor health. It was also interesting to learn that lesbians have a higher risk of breast cancer because they may not breast feed their children.
I could never understand why people are so “afraid” of people who are lesbian, but that is because they are afraid of what they do not know. Going along the lines of same sex marriage, I was appalled to find out that it does not exist in Queensland. I am very grateful that the vote is coming up, and I sincerely hope that people vote Yes on same sex marriage.
WEEK 8
It is very interesting to find out that women’s menstrual cycles were very taboo. I think in my 20’s, I have learned that my body is my body, and I should not be ashamed of it. When we are just developing, however, we learn to say, “It is my time of the month,” or “Aunt flow has arrived.” Not that often were girls taught that it is okay to be open with their hormones, and to express any concerns with their periods.
This all began with Hysteria, and how MEN believed that hysteria was caused by women’s reproductive organs. If a woman was found to be hysterical, she would have to get a hysterectomy.
NOTICE THE SIMILARITIES?! HYSTERIA AND HYSTERECTOMY.
Enough with my tangent. Because of this, and because women had been belittled for things they have no control over, many women seek drugs and alcohol as their outlet. Alcohol and drugs numb the pain, and make it easier to go through the day without having to suffer. Women how have this mentality are suffering from alcohol and drug abuse. Alcohol and drug abuse is a mental illness, and what is extremely surprising is that females are more likely to experience and report mental health problems. Being able to learn about women’s mental health has truly opened my eyes to women’s suffrage, and how everything is not as it seems on the surface.
WEEK 9
I believe the fashion industry has a long way to go in modern society in order to be an effective role model for girls and women everywhere. Even though there have been numerous improvements with fashion and body image (such as France having a rule about models, and how they are not allowed to be below a certain weight), the fashion industry still needs to make many changes with their clothes, advertisements, and models. I believe that the size of models and how they are represented in campaigns and in advertisements is the biggest problem in the fashion industry today. The fashion industry and advertising today can be blamed for many of women and girl's issues with weight and eating disorders. There are many people in the world who do not have the “ideal” body type and aggressive advertising campaigns showing extremely thin women wearing expensive clothes and being surrounded by gorgeous guys sets an upsetting tone for how all women should dress. The fact that these models are dangerously below the normal, healthy weight sets a terrible example for anyone who sees them book any jobs. If a 12 year old girl is watching a model with her ribs showing, and she is all skin and bones walking down the runway, that little girl is going to want to look exactly like that.
Even though I have never suffered from eating disorders, I was the chubby 12 year old who never understood why and how other girls could get so thin. I desperately wanted to look like them, and to feel pretty. I am saddened by the way society treated beauty almost a decade ago, and i am still shocked that it still exists today. The one difference, however, that I have noticed is that there are numerous movements taking storm, showing the world that you don't have to be dangerously thin to look pretty. One model in particular who is aiming to fight these unrealistic standards in today's society is model Iskra Lawrence. It is important that everyone listens to her message.
WEEK 12
I believe everyone has the right to have healthcare. The healthcare I am referring to is the type of healthcare that is available in First World Countries. Watching the documentaries from PBS illuminate how important healthcare is for everyone, and how it can improve the wellbeing of others. In Somaliland, 1 in 12 women have a chance of dying during childbirth simply because there are not enough resources for these pregnant women, and there are many people who are not properly trained in the medical field if there is a complication during childbirth. In Somaliland, one woman named Edna Adan is providing the proper training for the medical field, in order to prevent the death of mothers who have just given birth. Adan knows that education is the key for survival, as poor and uneducated women are the ones who die. I believe that Adan's passion for helping pregnant women and midwives is honorable, and many people should look at the work she has been putting into her community. Her actions are selfless, and it is up to us to look at people like Adan to help others in our own community who need help.Although there were no guest lecturers to speak with us during Week 12, I found that watching the Half the Sky Documentary was very insightful to my education. Being able to watch this documentary on how people are living without proper healthcare and education allows me to understand some of the problems that are occurring in the world. Not only does it show the problems that are in the world, but it also shows how people in those countries are aiming to fix those problems, and help their community every single day. It is truly inspiring to see how a simple act can make a difference, or how teaching midwives proper medical treatment can save numerous lives in different towns. Below is a five minute video from Half the Sky which shows the struggles that women are facing in Somaliland
WEEK 13
Having guest lecturers speak in class is always exciting, but having three guest lecturers show up is certainly a treat. The guest lecturer I found to be most exciting was the one where she talked about helping women with unplanned pregnancies. At first, I thought I knew the majority of the information, but I have yet to learn Australian specific information on the matter. I had no idea that it has been illegal to have an abortion in Queensland since 1899, and the only way you can have a termination of pregnancy is if the doctor says it is okay.
Growing up in California, it has been legal to have an abortion since Roe vs. Wade, so coming to a different country with different rules, shocks me. I believe that every woman has the right to her own body, and the government, or a doctor should not have the final say if she wants to keep a baby or not. In my eyes, it is cruel. The fact that a doctor will allow a woman to have an abortion is only if the pregnancy is causing physical or mental health to the mother is absurd. I am very thankful that this nonprofit organization has been around for 45-46 years, and is currently the only independent pro-choice service in Australia.
Women need a place to call their own, but I think education is a key into getting abortion legalized in Queensland. If there is more education about safe sex, or just sexual health in general, in schools, then people will understand that it is okay if a woman does not want to have a child. This would be extremely helpful for young children who do not yet understand their own body, and end up in a situation where they need help. This example would pertain to an 11 year old who ended up calling the nonprofit organization.
Sarah Weise n10055959
WEEK 2
There is this stigma that people go through where they must adhere to a specific gender stereotype. Women must look put together, are the caregivers of the household, must adhere to lady like standards, and numerous other qualifications that women must follow in modern society. One of the main reasons for women to follow these “rules” in life is because social media has and continues to influence women on what the “perfect” body looks like, how the “perfect” woman should act, and how to look beautiful. Women and girls should embrace who they truly are, and should not give in to peer pressure, or to the media. To me, it is an insult when men say to women, "You should smile more," or "You'd look prettier if you did ___." There should be no reason why anyone, especially a man, should make a comment on someone's appearance. Considering we live in 2017, one would think that society has changed in some ways, but the fact of the matter is, we are engrained to act a certain way since birth.When we were babies, and the doctor said “Oh, it’s a girl!” our parents’ minds automatically thought of pink, pink, pink. Even though not all parents think this way like mine did, there are those who still dress their little girls in pink outfits with bow ties, and boys in blue to represent how “manly” they are. But I’m going to be honest when I say babies are just babies. A baby cannot be manly, and a baby does not care what colors look good on them, but a baby is trying to experience the world for the first time. Babies need to have the ability to figure things out for their own, without people forcing gender stereotypes on them.
WEEK 3
Women have always been sexualized in the society. The simple fact is, when we look at posters, or buses, or magazine, or social media, we will see women's bodies being used to sell some type of product, or to gain men's attention for sexual desires. If we looked at posters, we will most likely see a woman's bare body than a man's, and what makes that okay? Since when is it socially acceptable to show off women's bodies in a demeaning way, and say that it is used for "fashion," or as an "advertisement?" Although it might seem absurd to ask these questions, these questions are simply normal to ask when the social standard for men and women are completely different.The problem with having women's bodies be exploited over social media for example is that it is out in the world forever, and it does not set a good example for young girls. These girls will grow up to think that it is okay for women's bodies to be treated as objects, when in reality, our bodies are powerful, and can endure childbirth and menstrual cycles. Where is the recognition for what women's bodies can really do?
Although there is still a lot of sexism in today's society, there are still many women who are breaking free of the social norms, and taking a stand. Women are not shaving, showing their stretch marks, and are not striving towards that "model" figure. These women are posting and sharing their stories all over social media, and that is exactly what type of body image people should strive for. Being confident in one's own body should be the ultimate goal, instead of striving for the figures we see in advertisements. If women embrace their own individual beauty, especially with ads, such as American Eagle clothing line, then the future generation will continue to speak for themselves, and embrace their bodies for how they truly look like.
WEEK 4
My mother was 39 when I was born, and was already married for 2 years. She had been working at the same job for almost 15 years, and was financially stable. Obviously when a 38-year-old woman gets pregnant, there are some concerns for the child, but many tests were run, and nothing was out of the ordinary. I think growing up, my mother knew she was not the youngest with a small child, and she did not have the same energy as the 20-something year old mothers did. I always asked her why she never had another child after me, and she simply said, “Because I was too old,” which clearly makes a lot of sense.The way I view myself is probably similar to my mother. I want to finish my education, and get my masters, and most likely my PhD. I want to have a career and be my own person, instead of marrying young and having multiple children. At almost 20, I say to myself that I have plenty of time to find my way, but in the back of my mind, I think to when my paternal grandmother got married at 19, and had 4 kids, all before she was 25, and 15 years later when she got pregnant again, it was her decision to have an abortion (and a legal one at that since Roe vs. Wade allowed women to have the legal right to have an abortion), as my grandparents could not afford to have another child.
From having a child, or not having a child, it is always the women’s right to choose. She should have the say over her own body. I have always felt this way, and I will always think this way. I certainly felt those feelings when I walked in the Women’s March in Los Angeles. Everything that is happening in the world today is creating history, and being a part of history makes shows those that a single act can make a difference. People should not simply stand by the sidelines, but they should speak up, or show their support for what really matters because if no now speaks up, then people will continue to make the same mistakes in the future.
I have found a website with a video that shows people from around the world supporting women, and supporting their fight against the current presidential election.
Support for Women from Around the World
WEEK 5
I believe that women deserve the right to earn equal pay, and to be recognized for their actions. Many women are looked down upon constantly, and are belittled in the workforce, or while walking down the street. If one were to look at moms alone, women are either criticized for working constantly at an office, instead of spending time with their children, or the reverse, where women are criticized for "not having a real job" and staying at home. If a mother wants to stay at home and care for her children, she shouldn't be treated any less than a mother, and if she wants to go to work, she not be criticized for wanting a career.There is this idea that if women want to work, then they do not want a family, or if they want a family, then they should not be working. Living in the 21st Century, you would think that people would have changed their point of views since the 50's. In reality, it seems as though many people still have that mind set where women are only capable of birthing children. If we look at moms who want to stay at home, we can see that they working nonstop. Instead of those who go to an office, for example, from 9am-5pm, those people can then go back home and relax. Stay-at-home moms, on the other hand, have no breaks, and are constantly working without getting the proper recognition that they deserve.This article below should help with how important a Stay-At-Home Mom is...
Stay-At-Home Mums
WEEK 6
What I always think about when domestic violence comes up in a conversation is how women do not have to be in a physically abusive relationship to be in a domestic relationship. There are many women who are mentally abused, which can lead to physical harm, and can cause those women to seek medical attention. I also know that there are many people in the world who believe that those women who do not leave a violent relationship are "stupid" for not leaving that toxic relationship, but the one thing people need to realize is, is it is not as simple as it may seem. What women in these situations need is support. Sometimes these women are in a domestic relationship for numerous years, and when they have the courage to take action, what they do not need to hear is "How come you waited so long to do something about it?" People who are in domestic relationships need someone they can count on, not someone who will put them down.Although I have not known anyone personally who has been in a violent relationship, I know what actions to take, and what support systems are available for those who are in one. Knowing someone who is in a domestic relationship does not mean that you know someone who is weak and could not handle themselves, but knowing someone in that situation means you are in a presence of a fighter.
If there is one thing that I have learned from this lecture, is that ANYONE can be in an abusive relationship, and it is not our job to be judgmental, but we are there to be supportive and to help in whichever way we can.
WEEK 7
I had never known that lesbian women have different health than straight women. I had honestly believed that all women were the same, and if they were not, it certainly was not based off of their sexual orientation. Growing up, I knew many lesbian women, as some of them were my neighbors. I also knew gay men growing up, so for me, the LGBTQ community was not new for me. What became new in this lecture, however, was the history that came with lesbianism. The word of lesbian comes from the Greek island of Lesbos, home to the 6th century BCE poet Sappho. What is also interesting is that lesbian is referred to any aspect of Lesbos, including a type of wine.The fact that women are discriminated against and are being judged on their sexual orientation when seeking health care, is what is contributing to their poor health. It was also interesting to learn that lesbians have a higher risk of breast cancer because they may not breast feed their children.
I could never understand why people are so “afraid” of people who are lesbian, but that is because they are afraid of what they do not know. Going along the lines of same sex marriage, I was appalled to find out that it does not exist in Queensland. I am very grateful that the vote is coming up, and I sincerely hope that people vote Yes on same sex marriage.
WEEK 8
It is very interesting to find out that women’s menstrual cycles were very taboo. I think in my 20’s, I have learned that my body is my body, and I should not be ashamed of it. When we are just developing, however, we learn to say, “It is my time of the month,” or “Aunt flow has arrived.” Not that often were girls taught that it is okay to be open with their hormones, and to express any concerns with their periods.This all began with Hysteria, and how MEN believed that hysteria was caused by women’s reproductive organs. If a woman was found to be hysterical, she would have to get a hysterectomy.
NOTICE THE SIMILARITIES?! HYSTERIA AND HYSTERECTOMY.
Enough with my tangent. Because of this, and because women had been belittled for things they have no control over, many women seek drugs and alcohol as their outlet.
Alcohol and drugs numb the pain, and make it easier to go through the day without having to suffer. Women how have this mentality are suffering from alcohol and drug abuse. Alcohol and drug abuse is a mental illness, and what is extremely surprising is that females are more likely to experience and report mental health problems. Being able to learn about women’s mental health has truly opened my eyes to women’s suffrage, and how everything is not as it seems on the surface.
WEEK 9
I believe the fashion industry has a long way to go in modern society in order to be an effective role model for girls and women everywhere. Even though there have been numerous improvements with fashion and body image (such as France having a rule about models, and how they are not allowed to be below a certain weight), the fashion industry still needs to make many changes with their clothes, advertisements, and models. I believe that the size of models and how they are represented in campaigns and in advertisements is the biggest problem in the fashion industry today.The fashion industry and advertising today can be blamed for many of women and girl's issues with weight and eating disorders. There are many people in the world who do not have the “ideal” body type and aggressive advertising campaigns showing extremely thin women wearing expensive clothes and being surrounded by gorgeous guys sets an upsetting tone for how all women should dress. The fact that these models are dangerously below the normal, healthy weight sets a terrible example for anyone who sees them book any jobs. If a 12 year old girl is watching a model with her ribs showing, and she is all skin and bones walking down the runway, that little girl is going to want to look exactly like that.
Even though I have never suffered from eating disorders, I was the chubby 12 year old who never understood why and how other girls could get so thin. I desperately wanted to look like them, and to feel pretty. I am saddened by the way society treated beauty almost a decade ago, and i am still shocked that it still exists today. The one difference, however, that I have noticed is that there are numerous movements taking storm, showing the world that you don't have to be dangerously thin to look pretty. One model in particular who is aiming to fight these unrealistic standards in today's society is model Iskra Lawrence. It is important that everyone listens to her message.
WEEK 12
I believe everyone has the right to have healthcare. The healthcare I am referring to is the type of healthcare that is available in First World Countries. Watching the documentaries from PBS illuminate how important healthcare is for everyone, and how it can improve the wellbeing of others. In Somaliland, 1 in 12 women have a chance of dying during childbirth simply because there are not enough resources for these pregnant women, and there are many people who are not properly trained in the medical field if there is a complication during childbirth. In Somaliland, one woman named Edna Adan is providing the proper training for the medical field, in order to prevent the death of mothers who have just given birth. Adan knows that education is the key for survival, as poor and uneducated women are the ones who die. I believe that Adan's passion for helping pregnant women and midwives is honorable, and many people should look at the work she has been putting into her community. Her actions are selfless, and it is up to us to look at people like Adan to help others in our own community who need help.Below is a five minute video from Half the Sky which shows the struggles that women are facing in Somaliland
WEEK 13
Having guest lecturers speak in class is always exciting, but having three guest lecturers show up is certainly a treat. The guest lecturer I found to be most exciting was the one where she talked about helping women with unplanned pregnancies. At first, I thought I knew the majority of the information, but I have yet to learn Australian specific information on the matter. I had no idea that it has been illegal to have an abortion in Queensland since 1899, and the only way you can have a termination of pregnancy is if the doctor says it is okay.Growing up in California, it has been legal to have an abortion since Roe vs. Wade, so coming to a different country with different rules, shocks me. I believe that every woman has the right to her own body, and the government, or a doctor should not have the final say if she wants to keep a baby or not. In my eyes, it is cruel. The fact that a doctor will allow a woman to have an abortion is only if the pregnancy is causing physical or mental health to the mother is absurd. I am very thankful that this nonprofit organization has been around for 45-46 years, and is currently the only independent pro-choice service in Australia.
Women need a place to call their own, but I think education is a key into getting abortion legalized in Queensland. If there is more education about safe sex, or just sexual health in general, in schools, then people will understand that it is okay if a woman does not want to have a child. This would be extremely helpful for young children who do not yet understand their own body, and end up in a situation where they need help. This example would pertain to an 11 year old who ended up calling the nonprofit organization.
Everyone should have the right to choose!