Module 19

I have thoroughly enjoyed taking this class, and learning more about some of the myriad aspects of feminism, and all their intersectionalities. This class has definitely made me more conscious of various kinds of inequalities, and just how much social infrastructure affects the functioning of society. I find myself applying this feminist critical thought to everyday life all the time! It has sparked good conversations with peers as well.

It may sound naive and idyllic, but I look forward to a "just future" where everyone is treated equally, respectfully, and without discrimination or disparity. This goal may never be fully achieved, but I don't think that means that it is pointless to desire it or work towards it. I liked the way Lisa Jervis put it in the article "The End of Feminism's Third Wave:" "We all want [gender] justice. We may not all agree on exactly what it looks like or how to get it. We should never expect to. Feminism has always thrived on and grown from internal discussions and disagreements. Our many different and opposing perspectives are what push us forward, honing our theories, refining our tactics..."

I would highly recommend that anyone take a Women's Studies class, I think that with the right attitude and approach (i.e., an open mind), the value of taking such a class is inestimable. At the very least it might cause someone to more closely re-examine their personal values and beliefs, and beyond that, it can inspire meaningful discussions or even spur some people to more fully dedicate themselves to social change. I think that many guys in particular stand to gain a lot from taking a Women's Studies class, because of the problem of invisibility of privilege, which we have discussed previously in this class. Taking such a class would challenge commonly held stereotypes of feminism, and enlighten people to its true core tenets. In the "Manifesto for Third Wave Feminism," Tamara Straus noted the "continued importance of feminism in politics, education, and culture." Everything that we have learned and discussed in this course has reinforced the idea of this ongoing importance of feminist thought and activism in society, because as far as we have come, we still have a long way to go.