Today marks the end of the first week of classes in my first year as a student in the Women’s Studies Master’s Program. During the week, I’m sure some of my classmates (and maybe some of my professors) have thought to themselves “what is this man doing in my Women’s Studies class” or “isn’t this my safe space to bash men”. And if not, on Sunday a less progressive women asked me what I was studying in Graduate School
Many think that feminism refers to the movement seeking equal or greater rights and involvement in society for women. I however view feminism as a political project meant to liberate both men and women from the conventions of a binary gender system. In this framework it should not be surprising that a man such as me who feels constrained by the gender roles constructed by society to be interested in this discipline. But alas, society has constructed itself to think of a man studying for a Master’s Degree in Women’s Studies to be deviant and I’m thus looked at like an alien when explaining what they I am studying in Graduate School Graduate School
Just wanted to say that I think it's SUPER you are in the Women's Studies program. We, women and men, are bound by age old perceptions of gender. Life will be ever so much better for everyone once we let go of them. Hopefully, one day, Women's studies will be part of every college undergraduate core curriculum. And, you'll be able to remember that you were one of the first - a pioneer.
ReplyDeleteAs for man bashing . . . don't project that unto your fellow class mates or professors. I for one love guys: My husband/life partner of 23 years and my two sons, one after and one in college are my BEST, BEST, BEST friends.
As a women's studies student who identifies as a woman, I would say that most women don't think of women's studies (or all female) spaces as a place to bash men, but to critique masculinity. That is a significant and crucial difference.
ReplyDeleteI would also argue that you are not necessarily perceived as deviant, but rather a curiosity. We are so accustomed to believing that only women care about women that a man who cares about women (presuming that to be in this program is to care about women and men) is alien-like. If anything, you may get a boost in status because male privilege still functions where women congregate. But you are right - their stares are because they interpret you as reneging on your privilege not to care or know about women's lived realities.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this - I have wondered what your perspective was on your social location in a program that is built to challenge patriarchy. I am glad you are here, and hope more men will follow.