Rachel's topic concerned the portrayal of mentally ill individuals, in particular the portrayal of schizophrenia. It was particularly interesting to know that the portrayal of mental illness has changed throughout time. Which makes sense, it will fit the ideas of the current time it is produced in. What concerns me is how much of an impact these images truly shape our perceptions. As Rachel explained, a large percentage of our time is spent watching television. While in an educational setting it would be more likely to have an accurate portrayal, film and media often exaggerate and entirely get a portrayal wrong. This is crucial for stigmatized/oppressed communities who already face this within society. These wrong portrayals only intensify this fact.
Katie Ann's topic was particularly interesting to me because I had heard the claim that E-Harmony would not let gay and lesbian identified people use their dating service because the research had only been done on straight couples. I had always known the website to not be queer friendly in any manner, so it was very shocking to hear they had developed another site. I wondered why Eharmony developed this new website- was it for an additional source of profit? For example, in my environmental sociology course we talk about producers "green washing" a particular product. I'm wondering if here this company tried to appeal to gay and lesbian people for a better profit. I find this humorous after being noted as a homophobic company. I had yet to hear of Compatible Partners and I'm curious if there is a backlash against the site because of it being owned by eHarmony. Katie Ann noted the differences between eHarmony and Compatible Partners regarding marriage, religion, and children. We can see from this that many offline "real world" depictions translate to online websites.
David's topic concerned high commercial dating websites have essentially turned queer bodies into pornography. This was particularly interesting after Katie Ann's presentation because we can begin to analyze what type of market exists for queer dating websites. Popular websites for gay men to connect and date essentially make the experience into a sexual encounter. Even in the personal information sexual encounters are made apparent by asking the user about penis size. Weekly submissions are used to create pornography. Gay men are over sexualized and their experiences are essentially turned into pornography.
Kelsey's topic concerned cyber bullying as a relatively new area gaining attention from schools and parents. The concept of bullying has shifted out of the advances in technology, making bullying less distinguishable. Many parents who do not have the same skills in technology are isolated from their children and unaware that bullying is occurring. While schools can intervene to a certain extent with use of their own technology, children who use phones are always plugged in to social life. In my opinion, a step toward helping this situation is for parents to become more involved in how much technology their children consume. Children truly don't need to have high tech phones or be plugged into the internet at all times. When I addressed the issue of the digital divide I advocated for children to learn how to use a computer in age appropriate phases. Children do need to learn about technology but in a productive manner. Being constantly tied into social networks is a frightening concept for me because I didn't have a cell phone until late high school. Middle school especially is a time where children are overly concerned about others and I do see harm in being constantly accessible through phones and technology.
Leah's topic concerned the media portrayal of women in the military. The military generally is associated with extreme masculinity. Leah discussed how the military may use tactics to appeal to women which include not being in combat situations, less risky occupations. How should the media portray women in the media? In my opinion the media does not often note the reality of many women in the media, which includes sexual assault and harassment. A large number of women are assaulted and harassed within their own military group. Leah noted that women aren't allowed to be feminine and I've heard another side to this as well. A woman visited UNH a couple of years ago to speak out against Don't Ask, Don't Tell and also discussed her experience as a woman in the military. She was more masculine but pressured to appear feminine. I'm unsure of the current media portrayal of women or if there is much of a conversation concerning these important issues.
Kenlyne's topic concerned cyber cheating and how the internet has change the way in which we think about infidelity. There are blurred lines of trust relating to this topic as I mentioned in my previous blog post. Where everything can be hidden or deleted it seems our relationship must be strong to make it through possible doubts. As Kenlyne noted, the internet has also altered the way we can deal with situations of infidelity. In the past some may have confronted this person face to face, but what do you do when the other person lives so far away? This topic is a great example of how technology is reshaping the way we interact online and perceive trust in our relationships.
Dani's topic concerned the concept of community in relation to online websites such as YouTube. Dani noted that the internet has been used as an example for and against bettering community. However, she also noted that the definition of community through technology, not necessarily for better or worse. Vlogging communities offer the possibility of connecting with others both online and offline, as many are initially connecting online and then later meeting offline. I think it would be interesting to discuss how the definition of community has shifted throughout time and that this is another step.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Friday, December 3, 2010
Presentations 11/30/10
Here's some feedback on the presentations from our last class...
Jayne's discussion of cyber cheating through Facebook was a thought provoking topic. It inspired me to take the topic further and question the lines of jealousy and privacy within a relationship. Some of the questions that crossed my mind are: as technology becomes a main source of communication and social networking, do we in turn become dissociated from our personal connections? Where does the trust lie in our relationships when we need to worry about who our partner is texting and communicating with through technology. In another light, how much freedom and trust do we need to leave with our partner? The lines of privacy become blurred within the internet and social networking sites such as Facebook as is. Technology does not necessarily encourage one's partner to cheat but does make it simple. Our partner can be so discreet with deleted texts and personal passwords so that we may never know who they are connecting with. This is yet another area where technology and socialization become blurred because the face of cheating has changed through discreetness.
Niquesha's discussion surrounding homophobia being linked to Black communities through the church was complex. This brought to my mind the discussion after Still Black where a statement was made that homophobia is mostly present in Black religious communities. However, as David noted, we must consider why only Black religious communities are depicted as homophobic. As mentioned in class there are numerous faiths which are known for being extremely homophobic yet these are rarely mentioned. For this topic I believe that establishing who benefits from creating Black communities as homophobic is very important to addressing the overall topic. What purpose does it serve that White religious communities that are homophobic aren't judged as a whole while Black religious communities are? As Courtney said, "the Black community can be whatever you'd like them to be." Could this be just another distraction so that homophobia appears more acceptable and/or less of an issue within particular religious communities? While keeping this important side of the issue in mind I believe we can then begin to examine the representation of queerness within Black communities and the role religion does play in this, not because we can truthfully say "black communities are more homophobic and religious" but we can recognize the forces contributing to this stereotype and what the reality looks like.
Danielle's topic regarding women in video games was also extremely interesting due to how mainstream "gaming" has become. While some can acknowledge that media such as pornography desensitizes consumers to violence and objectification, the argument that "it's only a game" is prevalent. When we only regard these images, games, and videos on the surface level it entirely ignores the psychology behind our consumption. Video games do not exist in a vacuum, they exist within a culture that promotes rape, dehumanizes women, and encourages violence against women. Our consumption of these video games and depictions of women is not mindless, our brains register and respond. When we normalize the concept of women as not "real" characters but sexual objects or "bitches we can fuck and kill" that is stored within our mindset. These concepts do not appear in video games out of creativity nor do they appear in the attitude and actions of others out of thin air. This topic is incredibly interesting because it's reckless to ignore the messages we receive through mass media.
Rebecca's topic on the power we invest in doctors brought to my mind how medicine and health have become a business. This idea is not only related to doctor visits but health insurance and prescription medicine. Our country spends an incredible amount of money on products that are meant to alter our image or make us healthier. However, how much faith do we put in the word of a doctor since health care has become commercialized? Are we cared for by our doctors or simply another dollar sign? Technology has played an essential role in the divide between health professionals and the average person as information has been made accessible at all times on the internet. I would also consider what role the digital divide has in relation to this topic. I specifically wonder if those who do not have access to a vast amount of information are less likely to object to a doctor's wishes. Is it technology or the concept of being a dollar sign that has many individuals questioning the accuracy of health professionals?
Dana's topic on pregnant women using the internet for advice relating to health care brought to questions to my mind that were similar to those in relation to Rebecca's topic. I think it is important to consider why there is so much mistrust in the medical community that many turn to the internet. Also, is the information we are receiving quality? Or are we looking to find websites that confirm our personal opinions? This topic was presented in the manner that having the ability to retrieve information through the internet is empowering to women who do not have to rely on health professionals. While I do view this as empowering because women can connect with one another and do research on their own, I'm always skeptical of idealizing the internet. For this topic I'd also be interested in what role the digital divide plays, if any.
Emily's topic addressed how racism and homophobia that appears online in social networking and dating websites. As discussed in class, the creation of the internet was thought to be groundbreaking because of anonymity. One would have no race, class, gender, or orientation while interacting with others on the internet. As I've mentioned in regard to video games, technology does not exist in a vacuum outside of culture. We clearly see instances of racism, sexism, and heterosexism on the internet that reflect our "real world" back to us. For this topic I think it would be interesting to analyze the disconnect between our conception of the internet and the real world. There seems to be a strong divide where people feel they have a life on the internet and then a "real" life. Perhaps this is why many are so skeptical to believe that these real life "isms" hold a place on the web?
Jayne's discussion of cyber cheating through Facebook was a thought provoking topic. It inspired me to take the topic further and question the lines of jealousy and privacy within a relationship. Some of the questions that crossed my mind are: as technology becomes a main source of communication and social networking, do we in turn become dissociated from our personal connections? Where does the trust lie in our relationships when we need to worry about who our partner is texting and communicating with through technology. In another light, how much freedom and trust do we need to leave with our partner? The lines of privacy become blurred within the internet and social networking sites such as Facebook as is. Technology does not necessarily encourage one's partner to cheat but does make it simple. Our partner can be so discreet with deleted texts and personal passwords so that we may never know who they are connecting with. This is yet another area where technology and socialization become blurred because the face of cheating has changed through discreetness.
Niquesha's discussion surrounding homophobia being linked to Black communities through the church was complex. This brought to my mind the discussion after Still Black where a statement was made that homophobia is mostly present in Black religious communities. However, as David noted, we must consider why only Black religious communities are depicted as homophobic. As mentioned in class there are numerous faiths which are known for being extremely homophobic yet these are rarely mentioned. For this topic I believe that establishing who benefits from creating Black communities as homophobic is very important to addressing the overall topic. What purpose does it serve that White religious communities that are homophobic aren't judged as a whole while Black religious communities are? As Courtney said, "the Black community can be whatever you'd like them to be." Could this be just another distraction so that homophobia appears more acceptable and/or less of an issue within particular religious communities? While keeping this important side of the issue in mind I believe we can then begin to examine the representation of queerness within Black communities and the role religion does play in this, not because we can truthfully say "black communities are more homophobic and religious" but we can recognize the forces contributing to this stereotype and what the reality looks like.
Danielle's topic regarding women in video games was also extremely interesting due to how mainstream "gaming" has become. While some can acknowledge that media such as pornography desensitizes consumers to violence and objectification, the argument that "it's only a game" is prevalent. When we only regard these images, games, and videos on the surface level it entirely ignores the psychology behind our consumption. Video games do not exist in a vacuum, they exist within a culture that promotes rape, dehumanizes women, and encourages violence against women. Our consumption of these video games and depictions of women is not mindless, our brains register and respond. When we normalize the concept of women as not "real" characters but sexual objects or "bitches we can fuck and kill" that is stored within our mindset. These concepts do not appear in video games out of creativity nor do they appear in the attitude and actions of others out of thin air. This topic is incredibly interesting because it's reckless to ignore the messages we receive through mass media.
Rebecca's topic on the power we invest in doctors brought to my mind how medicine and health have become a business. This idea is not only related to doctor visits but health insurance and prescription medicine. Our country spends an incredible amount of money on products that are meant to alter our image or make us healthier. However, how much faith do we put in the word of a doctor since health care has become commercialized? Are we cared for by our doctors or simply another dollar sign? Technology has played an essential role in the divide between health professionals and the average person as information has been made accessible at all times on the internet. I would also consider what role the digital divide has in relation to this topic. I specifically wonder if those who do not have access to a vast amount of information are less likely to object to a doctor's wishes. Is it technology or the concept of being a dollar sign that has many individuals questioning the accuracy of health professionals?
Dana's topic on pregnant women using the internet for advice relating to health care brought to questions to my mind that were similar to those in relation to Rebecca's topic. I think it is important to consider why there is so much mistrust in the medical community that many turn to the internet. Also, is the information we are receiving quality? Or are we looking to find websites that confirm our personal opinions? This topic was presented in the manner that having the ability to retrieve information through the internet is empowering to women who do not have to rely on health professionals. While I do view this as empowering because women can connect with one another and do research on their own, I'm always skeptical of idealizing the internet. For this topic I'd also be interested in what role the digital divide plays, if any.
Emily's topic addressed how racism and homophobia that appears online in social networking and dating websites. As discussed in class, the creation of the internet was thought to be groundbreaking because of anonymity. One would have no race, class, gender, or orientation while interacting with others on the internet. As I've mentioned in regard to video games, technology does not exist in a vacuum outside of culture. We clearly see instances of racism, sexism, and heterosexism on the internet that reflect our "real world" back to us. For this topic I think it would be interesting to analyze the disconnect between our conception of the internet and the real world. There seems to be a strong divide where people feel they have a life on the internet and then a "real" life. Perhaps this is why many are so skeptical to believe that these real life "isms" hold a place on the web?
Friday, November 26, 2010
The Digital Divide: Current Civil Rights Issue?
The Digital Divide concerns the growing gap between those who can use and comprehend technology (essentially, using a computer) and those who are not able to do so. This issue does not simply concern being able to use the basic functions of a computer, but having the skills to navigate technology as a resource. Those who have not had opportunities for education surrounding technology are placed at a disadvantage in a society that values computers as a source of knowledge and communication. Currently, many employers use the internet to look for new employees and the majority of job applications are done online. This puts those who have never been provided education on how to navigate the internet at an advantage of missing job opportunities. Along with employment struggles, the use of a computer and the internet also provide a great source of information and social networking. In higher education, having a computer is vital as grades, assignments, and information concerning classes are typically posted online. Using a computer has the potential to be utilized in a productive manner and is increasingly required as a skill in employment and education. Due to the increased value placed on technology skills along with the vast amount of information on the internet, I do consider this a civil rights issue. To have such a gap regarding an important skill undoubtedly puts many at a disadvantage.
To address the issue of the digital divide, early education needs to provide comprehensive, age appropriate experience with computers. If this began at an early age and continued throughout elementary school, middle school, and high school these skills could be expanded on and applied to appropriate situations. Simply providing schools with computers does not fully address the complexity of the situation at hand. As discussed in class, this may allow students to develop web navigating skills but the majority of the time this results in these skills not being used in an educational manner. Students need the education to utilize computer resources in a scholarly and professional manner. If this were to be provided the growing "skill set" which includes technology experience and comprehension would not pose such a threat in regard to employment opportunities. The funding for this program and technology would be difficult for many schools and there is a need for an initiative to take action and raise funds. For adults, courses should be offered in community spaces that are flexible to work schedules. I realize that the manner in which I initially address this issue doesn't take into account those who are no longer enrolled in school. Community based courses may also encourage individuals struggling with technology to connect with others and share experiences. I imagine these courses to be focused on navigating the web for information, social networking, and increasing employment opportunities.
In my experience with technology I have been incredibly privileged. I remember having a home computer when I was in elementary school. I had some experience with computers in my early education but then the subject was dropped until high school where I was required to take a basic computer course. My middle school and high school did provide computers in the library for students to complete projects on and search for information online. While I wasn't provided the most comprehensive education surrounding computer programs, I learned by completing projects and on my home computer. I was provided an opportunity that many are not. In my college career my knowledge of computers has put me at an advantage and I cannot imagine not knowing how to do so. From the application process to course assignments, a great deal of my college experience has been on the internet. Also, my current job involves being able to perform basic functions on the computer. To not have received education or experience with this technology would have set me at a great disadvantage.
To address the issue of the digital divide, early education needs to provide comprehensive, age appropriate experience with computers. If this began at an early age and continued throughout elementary school, middle school, and high school these skills could be expanded on and applied to appropriate situations. Simply providing schools with computers does not fully address the complexity of the situation at hand. As discussed in class, this may allow students to develop web navigating skills but the majority of the time this results in these skills not being used in an educational manner. Students need the education to utilize computer resources in a scholarly and professional manner. If this were to be provided the growing "skill set" which includes technology experience and comprehension would not pose such a threat in regard to employment opportunities. The funding for this program and technology would be difficult for many schools and there is a need for an initiative to take action and raise funds. For adults, courses should be offered in community spaces that are flexible to work schedules. I realize that the manner in which I initially address this issue doesn't take into account those who are no longer enrolled in school. Community based courses may also encourage individuals struggling with technology to connect with others and share experiences. I imagine these courses to be focused on navigating the web for information, social networking, and increasing employment opportunities.
In my experience with technology I have been incredibly privileged. I remember having a home computer when I was in elementary school. I had some experience with computers in my early education but then the subject was dropped until high school where I was required to take a basic computer course. My middle school and high school did provide computers in the library for students to complete projects on and search for information online. While I wasn't provided the most comprehensive education surrounding computer programs, I learned by completing projects and on my home computer. I was provided an opportunity that many are not. In my college career my knowledge of computers has put me at an advantage and I cannot imagine not knowing how to do so. From the application process to course assignments, a great deal of my college experience has been on the internet. Also, my current job involves being able to perform basic functions on the computer. To not have received education or experience with this technology would have set me at a great disadvantage.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Paper Proposal & Annotated Bibliography
Proposal:
In my final paper I will focus on identity work through the use of the internet. In particular I will focus on teenage trans men who are actively involved in video logging (vlogs). These vlogs not only serve to document personal transition but to create online community and support. I will explore formation of gender identity and expression for those involved (either by creating or commenting) in these vlogging communities. My thesis being that active engagement in online vlogs encourages exploration of identity surrounding gender. This particularly influences the trans community where transgender living is rarely (if ever) represented in the media. Without any representation, trans teenagers are left with few safe spaces to create a dialogue about gender that isn't oppressive and restrictive. Those who create vlogs often reach out to others who may feel isolated to contact them if they are in need of advice. Vloggers often provide resources for trans friendly doctors, therapists, and clinics as well as personal stories. I argue that the personal component to these videos is what truly strengthens online community because it provides the opportunity for others to connect a concept with a story and a face. This is not to say that an individuals documented experience online should be the face of the teenage trans community. To refute my argument I will also be skeptical of idealizing online connections due to the digital divide and who has the opportunity to participate in such communities.
Works Cited:
Shapiro, Eve. Gender Circuits: Bodies and Identities in a Technological Age. New York, NY: Routledge, 2010. Print.
Bakardjieva, M. "Virtual Togetherness: an Everyday-life Perspective." Media, Culture & Society 25.3 (2003): 291-313. Print.
In my final paper I will focus on identity work through the use of the internet. In particular I will focus on teenage trans men who are actively involved in video logging (vlogs). These vlogs not only serve to document personal transition but to create online community and support. I will explore formation of gender identity and expression for those involved (either by creating or commenting) in these vlogging communities. My thesis being that active engagement in online vlogs encourages exploration of identity surrounding gender. This particularly influences the trans community where transgender living is rarely (if ever) represented in the media. Without any representation, trans teenagers are left with few safe spaces to create a dialogue about gender that isn't oppressive and restrictive. Those who create vlogs often reach out to others who may feel isolated to contact them if they are in need of advice. Vloggers often provide resources for trans friendly doctors, therapists, and clinics as well as personal stories. I argue that the personal component to these videos is what truly strengthens online community because it provides the opportunity for others to connect a concept with a story and a face. This is not to say that an individuals documented experience online should be the face of the teenage trans community. To refute my argument I will also be skeptical of idealizing online connections due to the digital divide and who has the opportunity to participate in such communities.
Works Cited:
Shapiro, Eve. Gender Circuits: Bodies and Identities in a Technological Age. New York, NY: Routledge, 2010. Print.
Bakardjieva, M. "Virtual Togetherness: an Everyday-life Perspective." Media, Culture & Society 25.3 (2003): 291-313. Print.
Friday, November 12, 2010
"Information Overload" Alexis Gumbs Visits UNH
Recently, Alexis Gumbs was interviewed by Courtney Marshall at the University of New Hampshire as part of a dialogue surrounding technology. Alexis began by reading a poem and speaking to the concept of information overload, as we are constantly bombarded with information in this fast paced world. We are overloaded with messages from countless sides telling us what to wear, what to drive, what to believe, how to live. It is difficult to decipher the messages we see today not only through media depictions but in the vast space of the internet. Our lives are symbolically split between how our profiles on social networking sites depict us and how we feel we are in real life. However, our internet depictions are not so separate from our offline experience and the internet is not entirely an escape from the outside world. The two may be combined which is a concept which Gumbs article "We Are the One's We've Been Waiting For" speaks to.
Online activism through blogging and networking keeps important words alive. Gumbs and Bailey note that the words of Black feminists are not still thriving due to coincidence but because these feminists took action and invested themselves in activism. Blogging communities truly resemble a grassroots effort to organize but through the internet have the capability to expand the number of individuals participating. I admire the effort Gumbs has put forth to respect her elders work and utilize these techniques in a manner that speaks to the technological advances of the present. In my opinion, this work is crucial because within feminism we must not forget the contributions of our elders and how advances have been made. I've often heard that my generation does not work nearly as hard or isn't as involved in activist work. Hearing Alexis Gumbs speak inspired an entirely different train of thought for me. That current generations are not necessarily unmotivated or lazy but perhaps activism is shifting to occupy a different space. A great deal of activism is being conducted through internet communities through blogging and vlogging. This is not to say that these individuals don't take issues "to the street" but that organizing within groups looks different from past methods.
Online activism through blogging and networking keeps important words alive. Gumbs and Bailey note that the words of Black feminists are not still thriving due to coincidence but because these feminists took action and invested themselves in activism. Blogging communities truly resemble a grassroots effort to organize but through the internet have the capability to expand the number of individuals participating. I admire the effort Gumbs has put forth to respect her elders work and utilize these techniques in a manner that speaks to the technological advances of the present. In my opinion, this work is crucial because within feminism we must not forget the contributions of our elders and how advances have been made. I've often heard that my generation does not work nearly as hard or isn't as involved in activist work. Hearing Alexis Gumbs speak inspired an entirely different train of thought for me. That current generations are not necessarily unmotivated or lazy but perhaps activism is shifting to occupy a different space. A great deal of activism is being conducted through internet communities through blogging and vlogging. This is not to say that these individuals don't take issues "to the street" but that organizing within groups looks different from past methods.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Final Paper Proposal
For my final paper I'm going to explore the influence of vlogs on identity formation among FTM teenagers (13-19). I will be mainly viewing these vlogs on youtube, where many trans men document their transition and share their experiences. From these individual "channels" many unique online communities have formed, including "collab channels" where a few individuals share space and each share their opinion on a particular topic or question. The question I will address is how vlogging has changed identity formation on FTM teenagers due to the virtual community which they are exposed. This technology is fairly new along with the concept of recording videos of oneself throughout transition to share them with the virtual world. I'm particularly interested in teenagers for this subject because many have not been able to go to therapy, have surgery, or start testosterone. Of course, not every FTM identified individual desires hormones or surgery which is an important factor to consider. Also, there are trans men exploring identity at later points in life past the teenage years. Rather, I'm interested in how the exposure to other transgender men through watching video documentation of their transition shapes identity formation. While the individual watching these videos may not desire hormones, surgery, therapy, etc the information is still being made available through videos. My thesis being that vlogging encourages identity exploration among transgender FTM teenagers.
In Shapiro's Gender Circuits she includes a case study of transgender individuals organizing online. In this case study it is stated that the internet was a crucial space of transgender organizing where personal questions and stories could be shared relatively free from the fear of violence. Shapiro comments that "this practice of sharing life histories is an opportunity for individuals to learn and deploy the discourses-in-practice required to construct authentic transgender identities." I will re-examine the work Shapiro has on identity work being done online with the lens of youtube vlogs as the direct focus. I will also incorporate other sources focusing on transgender youth and community forming and the impact of virtual community on identity.
Some questions I'm going to address and consider in relation to my paper are:
How has vlogging influenced community building in FTM teenagers?
How have virtual communities strengthened the narrative of identity formation among FTM teenagers? (Resources and real life experience surrounding hormones, surgery, documents, job experience, coming out process, passing, etc)
How does vlogging provide resources that are valuable for FTM teenagers? Are watching videos enough? Where does virtual communication end? I'm asking this because one of the vloggers I subscribe to also answers questions people have for him on an alternate website. He also answers e-mails for those who want to discuss topics discreetly. His mother also answers e-mails and made a youtube video with him for parents who have transgender teenagers.
In Shapiro's Gender Circuits she includes a case study of transgender individuals organizing online. In this case study it is stated that the internet was a crucial space of transgender organizing where personal questions and stories could be shared relatively free from the fear of violence. Shapiro comments that "this practice of sharing life histories is an opportunity for individuals to learn and deploy the discourses-in-practice required to construct authentic transgender identities." I will re-examine the work Shapiro has on identity work being done online with the lens of youtube vlogs as the direct focus. I will also incorporate other sources focusing on transgender youth and community forming and the impact of virtual community on identity.
Some questions I'm going to address and consider in relation to my paper are:
How has vlogging influenced community building in FTM teenagers?
How have virtual communities strengthened the narrative of identity formation among FTM teenagers? (Resources and real life experience surrounding hormones, surgery, documents, job experience, coming out process, passing, etc)
How does vlogging provide resources that are valuable for FTM teenagers? Are watching videos enough? Where does virtual communication end? I'm asking this because one of the vloggers I subscribe to also answers questions people have for him on an alternate website. He also answers e-mails for those who want to discuss topics discreetly. His mother also answers e-mails and made a youtube video with him for parents who have transgender teenagers.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Feministing!
I visit the website Feministing quite often to hear about current events through a feminist lens. The site posts responses to political and social happenings and users are generally more critical and analytic. The site is titled "Young Feminists: Blogging, Organizing, Kicking Ass" which sums up the feel of the website incredibly well. Jessica Valenti, one of the organizers and bloggers published a book to reach out to younger women who have never heard of feminism or have only heard negative comments. The work of this website keeps users updated on the current events while also encouraging critical thinking concerning major issues. Users can comment on posts to respond, debate, or get in touch with others. Users are also able to submit a post of their own on a specific topic or current event they feel is important.
The work of this website relates to the concept of "virtual togetherness" in that young feminists have a space to turn to which is critical yet fun to be involved in. In turn these young women are involved in the events that are happening and perhaps inspired to take action surrounding particular issues they become aware of. As I've mentioned, the site keeps discussion open and extremely relevant which encourages young women to participate. Users can also connect this website with Twitter and Facebook to share interesting articles with friends, family, and classmates. Not only does this blogging site encourage young women to explore feminism but also expands their ability to think critically and comprehend important issues.
We need to get our young feminists involved and critically thinking about the world around them!
The work of this website relates to the concept of "virtual togetherness" in that young feminists have a space to turn to which is critical yet fun to be involved in. In turn these young women are involved in the events that are happening and perhaps inspired to take action surrounding particular issues they become aware of. As I've mentioned, the site keeps discussion open and extremely relevant which encourages young women to participate. Users can also connect this website with Twitter and Facebook to share interesting articles with friends, family, and classmates. Not only does this blogging site encourage young women to explore feminism but also expands their ability to think critically and comprehend important issues.
We need to get our young feminists involved and critically thinking about the world around them!
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