The Vista NOTRE DAME ACADEMY*3535 W. SYLVANIA AVE.* TOLEDO, OH 43623* Vol. 67 Issue 2* Nov. 8, 2016
New Feminism Club Unites, Divides Grace Collier “Feminists are too angry” “I am a strong woman; I don't need feminism.” “Men can't be feminists.” “How can you not be a feminist?” “Feminism is simply equality.” The word feminism can evoke strong emotions and immediately divide a room. Even here at NDA, there are many different opinions on the topic. One reason feminism can be so complicated is because of the different types of feminism. There is radical feminism, white feminism and cultural feminism, among others. This is why it is so difficult to even understand what someone means when one claims to be or not be a feminist. Because of this, people come up with many ways to discuss and understand exactly what feminism is and what it means. The Feminism Club is a new addition to NDA this year. The first meeting had over 50 people in attendance. Science teacher Mrs. Jessica Beaverson, moderator of the club, describes feminism as “a way to connect people and help them to understand that we are all equal as humans and should be treated as such.” Senior Meghan Rowe, an officer of Feminism Club said feminism is a “basic human right” which involves people having “peaceful and respectful educational discussions.” According to senior Anna Johnston, an officer of Feminism Club, discussion will be a major aspect of the meetings. Meghan said that a main focus of feminism club will be “education that encourages equality.” “The main focus of the club is to em-
Feminism Club officers, seniors Anna Johnston and Gretchen Mihaly, give a presentation on the need for the education of females around the world. Photo by Grace Collier power women and use education as a tool to do so,” Anna said. Many see feminism as a way simply to discuss the need for equal rights and to educate people on issues women face. The idea is to discuss these problems and potential solutions. According to a poll done by the Huffington Post, 82% of respondents believe that "men and women should be social, political, and economic equals,”, but only 20%
However, like any topic, there are many sides and opinions on feminism. “In some of the ways that feminists try to share their beliefs, it is unnecessary. Their goals will not be met by forcing their views and opinions upon others or telling others that they are wrong for having their own beliefs,” senior Alyssa Sherman said. Many believe that, while equal rights are still wanted, feminists do
not always go about getting them the right way. “Overall, I agree with and believe in the root definition of feminism, that women and men are equal and should be treated as such. However, I do not agree with the way that some feminists go about provoking change or how they are willing to compromise their basic femininity to call themselves feminists,” Alyssa said. This presents another issue many see with feminism- the fact that some women compromise their femininity to be feminists. “Some girls think that because they are feminists, they need to compromise their feminine genius, but God made us, as women, to complement the male sex,” Alyssa explained. Feminism is not as easily described as its dictionary definition may imply. It is a complicated movement that is the topic of rants, discussion, arguments, debates and everyday conversation.
In This Issue: Page 2 NDA Presidential Election
Page 5 Seeing Teachers Outside of School
Page 7 Arts Around Toledo