rekomuse

Voices for Choices had a viewing of Miss Representation last night. Though the concepts were basic I thought it was really well done. If ever a “call to arms” for women to empower themselves and for a reform of the media’s depiction of women it is this movie.

There was a conversation after the movie that got me thinking about the moderation of discussion in organized groups. A pretty intense argument broke out which ended up in 4/5 members of the group ganging up on an obvious newcomer. She didn’t seem comfortable with feminist theory/language and shared with the group that she felt maybe there was some merit in women taking preventative measures against violence like walking home with someone or dressing modestly. Obviously this created some pretty intense discourse. I understand that the members of this group were pretty well versed and had thought critically about the issue but what I don’t understand is how the conversation basically turned into the group berating her. In my opinion, feminist discussion spaces should be welcoming and a safe space to learn and voice your opinions. It seems like organized groups tend to create this hierarchy of members which sometimes achieves the opposite of what it’s trying to create. What do you do in a situations where a discussion has gone awry/become counterproductive? Is it the moderators responsibility to move the conversation along?

Anyways, just some thoughts. Check out the film though! It’s rad.