blogs

After reading the three articles, based on the readings Speak Truth to Power by Wangari Maathai and The Brazilian Slum Children Who Are Literally Swimming in Garbage by Talita Corrêa they all show the struggles faced by women and the environment, highlighting that both are victims of the same systems of exploitation and neglect. Maathai shows us the connection between environmental degradation and social justice. She argues that deforestation and environmental destruction disproportionately affect women, particularly in rural areas of Africa where women often take the responsibility for collecting firewood and water. In the text it says “They spoke of how, once, they ate food that sustained their health. Now, while the food does not require much energy to grow, it does not sustain them. The women feel their families are now very weak and cannot resist diseases, that their bodies are impoverished because of an environment that is degraded.” (Maathai 2000) This is important because the degradation of natural resources turns into a form of oppression that restricts women’s ability to fulfill basic needs and diminishes their roles in their communities. This relationship between environmental degradation and women’s empowerment shows us the oppression of women and nature. Corrêa’s article shows us how the children in Brazil suffer from environmental issues. In the text it says “Larissa Silva, a ten-year-old who has chronic ringworm covering 80 percent of her body, lives a few miles away from the Asylum’s headquarters.” (Corrêa 2014) This is important because they live in a toxic environment that not only affects their health but also limits their potential and opportunities for a better future while also limiting their resources. The oppression faced by these children reflects the oppression of millions of women across the globe who are forced to live by similar conditions due to environmental neglect. Disempowerment plays a big role in the struggles of marginalized communities. When communities like this lack political voice, educational opportunities, and economic resources, they are unable to advocate for their own needs. For example, many low-income neighborhoods face challenges that involve lack of access to quality education, and insufficient healthcare. This disempowerment makes it very hard for these communities to improve their circumstances. As for the material deprivations, these communities lack food, clothing, and shelter, making it hard to get through their daily lives. 

Environmental degradation connects to these issues because many marginalized communities are located in areas that are impacted by pollution and climate change. For example, industrial waste often affects low-income neighborhoods disproportionately, causing them to have health issues they cannt afford. When resources like clean water and fertile land become recurring, the poor are mainly affected leading to further disempowerment and material deprivation. Governments and organizations must prioritize environmental justice by making sure that marginalized communities are included in decision-making processes regarding environmental policies. Creating things that focus on sustainable development can empower these communities and help them adapt to changing environmental conditions. This might include giving training for green jobs or investing in renewable energy projects that benefit low-income areas.

Corrêa, T. (2024). The Brazilian slum children who are literally swimming in Garbage. VICE. https://www.vice.com/en/article/the-brazilian-slum-children-who-are-literally-swimming-in-garbage-0000197-v21n1/ 

Maathai, W. (2000). Key Speeches & Articles. Speak Truth to Power | The Green Belt Movement. https://www.greenbeltmovement.org/wangari-maathai/key-speeches-and-articles/speak-truth-to-power 

Ecofeminism is a political and intellectual act that involves both feminism and environmentalism that connects the exploitation of nature and the oppression of women. Ecofeminism explores the relationship between the loss of hope for the environment and the oppression of women. In the text it says “Oppression of the natural world and of women by patriarchal power structures must be examined together or neither can be confronted fully.”(Hobgood-Oster 1). This quote is important because it explains societal structures that influence both the natural world and women’s experiences.This perspective shows the interconnectedness of all forms of life and how many social inequalities connect with environmental issues, which can be referred to as the “web” of life.  Ecofeminism argues that women andnature come from similar values that  reflect a worldview that devalues the feminine and the natural. One of the main things of ecofeminism is its relationship to intersectionality. Intersectionality is a term that shows us viewers how different forms of discrimination like race, gender, class, and sexuality connect with one another. In the text it says “ In the nineteenth century, women of color were associated with nature, uncontrolled passion, and promiscuity…Here within the privileged space of the white male gaze is a layered black subject who is at once socially inferior to a naked prostitute, for whom she is a servant, and yet a sexual signifier” (Adams p16) The quote shows what women of color went through in the nineteenth century, women of color were looked at differently than white women. While white women were viewed as gold, women of color faced stereotypes of being overly sexualized which dehumanized them and restricted their social status. This shows the historical views on women of color that still influences their experiences and lives now while also reflecting on the complexities they face in society. In order for us viewers to fully understand and address ecological problems it is important to look into how social injustices are interconnected. For example, women and marginalized groups often face a big part of environmental destruction because these communities are mainly affected by climate change or pollution. Womenin developing countries are disproportionately impacted by environmental degradation, affecting their health, livelihoods, and access to resources. In the text it says “ they should not be made a vehicle of traffic for the exploitation of others. Their monopolization by any country, nation or group of persons would be unjust. The neglect of this simple principle is the cause of the destitution that we witness today not only in this unhappy land but in other parts of the world too.”(Navdanya 2019) This is important because it shows the importance of not allowing resources or opportunities to be exploited by a specific group at the cost of others lives. From an ecological perspective the exploitation of resources impacts the environment – when countries and businesses prioritize profit instead of sustainable practices they help damage the environment and cause deforestation, pollution, and the use of natural resources. This destruction can lead to loss of biodiversity, climate change, and effects on health and communities.

Carol J. Adams (2010) “The Politics of Carol J. Adams.” Antennae, Autumn, pp. 12-24.

Hobgood-Oster, Laura. (2010) “Ecofeminism: Historic and International Evolution.” The Encyclopedia of Religion and Nature edited by Bron Taylor; Southwestern University, Georgetown, Texas.

Our vision. Navdanya. (n.a.). https://www.navdanya.org/component/content/article?id=620 

In the reading “GENDER EQUALITY AND STATE ENVIRONMENTALISM” by Norgaard and York they explain the important research on gender equality and state environmentalism that shows the connections between societal structures of gender and environmental policies. They give us an important view into how gender dynamics have a part in environmental governance and policymaking, while also showing the need for a more open understanding to these issues that address climate change. One of the main arguments by Norgaard and York is that gender equality is important for developing and implementing successful environmental policies. In the text it says “ This research indicates that women are more likely than men to express support for environmental protection and that women consider a variety of environmental risks, from nuclear power to toxic substances, to be more serious than do men.” (Norgaard and York 508) For many years it has been shown that women often prioritize environmental issues more than men do. The quote is important because it shows gender equality in environmental policy while also giving us a view into women’s perspectives and experiences into environmental negotiations that can lead to more effective policies. As societies are becoming more aware of highly important environmental issues, like climate change, pollution, and resource depletion, acknowledging different viewpoints can be very useful in policy making.

Making the Connections: Women’s Health and Environmental Justice – ProQuest

Women in government, environment, and corruption – ScienceDirect

Silliman’s article gives us a better understanding of how environmental factors mainly impact women’s health. The article’s main point is to show how environmental degradation disproportionately affects women, mainly those in marginalized communities. In the text it says “Its promotion and usage and the subsequent damage it inflicted on women’s health and fertility demonstrated the lack of research, regulation and safety considerations given to women’s health.”(Silliman 1997 ) This is important because women often are exposed to toxic waste due to them also being caregivers and head of households. This connection shows how issues of environmental justice are also issues of gender equity.

DiRienzo and Das research shows that more female representation in government with lower levels of corruption can create a more effective environmental policy. By adding women’s perspectives in environmental governance, policymakers can create strategies that not only help marginalized groups but also can address broader environmental challenges. In the text it says “ that a greater percentage of women in positions of political power improves environmental outcomes through both the absolute, overarching effect and the indirect effect; however, the indirect effect is the stronger of the two effects.”(DiRienzo and Das 2019) This is important because it shows that having more women in political positions can lead to better environmental results. The direct effect can show that women in power prioritize environmental issues more than their male associates. Both articles connect to Norgaard and York’s main thesis because they all have common themes that have to do with the nature of injustice. They show the importance of addressing the root causes of environmental degradation by considering who is affected and who holds power. 

I chose this image titled “why aren’t more women in top business positions?” because the questions asked to have to do with women not upholding the same qualities as men and vice versa. Statistically, women remain lower in leadership roles compared to their male figures. The statistics in the image show men being lower due to the gender specific question being asked. This statistic shows the connection between women in political power and state environmentalism, mainly pointing out that women do not have the same qualities as men when it comes to leadership. 

DiRienzo, C. and Das, J. (2019) Women in government, environment, and corruption. Environmental Development. Volume 30. Pages 103-113. ISSN 2211-4645. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envdev.2019.04.006.

Norgaard, K., & York, R. (2005). Gender equality and state environmentalism. Gender & Society, 19(4), 506–522. https://doi.org/10.1177/0891243204273612 

Silliman, J. (1997). Making the connections: Women’s health and environmental justice. Race, Gender & Class, 5(1), 104. Retrieved from https://www.libproxy.umassd.edu/login?

 

 

The three photos of a turkey with a bikini top tan line, an angry momma pig with her babies nursing, and an image that shows a big with heels and booty shorts with the background “best butts in Georgia” shows us a complex connection between the objectification and sexualization of both women and animals. These images show us societal attitudes toward bodies whether they belong to humans or animals and reveal a disturbing imagine framing these bodies within contexts that highlights our overall problem within the women community. Objectification is when physical properties sometimes disregard someone real purpose and value. The photo of the turkey wearing a bikini top show that the animal is a thing created for visual appearance and entertainment. Like the photo of the pig nursing her babies shows her stressing her reproductive system and also how she supports the babies by nurturing them. These show common societal tendencies to perceive women and animals mostly by physicality more than to appreciate them for what they do. 

Sexualization also connects to these issues – the image of a big women / pig wearing shorts and heels with the messaging that point out her body, shows how societal norms often point of obvious appearances. These images proves that women are much like the animals that are frequently valued for their bodies rather than their intellect or individuality. The “consumer” is those who are creating these views through engagement with such images. Women and animals turn into the ” consumed” objects of a society that frequently values them based on their looks. In the text it says,” Animals are assumed to want it like women. One can consume either a pig or a woman. One can exploit and destroy a calf or a woman.” (Kemmerer 2006) This shows a wider societal issue where societal norms dictate behaviors and values – the imagery shown in the three photos is an impressive view on the objectification and sexualization shown in contemporary society. Both women and animals are subjected to views that highlight their appearance over substance. Point out these behaviors is important because it gives women a more respectful and nuanced understanding of bodies. 

The photo of the young lady with fork and knife in front of a large piece of raw meat can be an explain of Adams argument that the consumption of meat is linked to patriarchal structures and the subjugation of women. The image means more than a simple meal; it becomes a symbolic view of the complex power dynamics. The raw meat symbolizes the objectification and commodification of the female body. Adams describes how the meat industry consistently de-animalizes creatures which reduces them to simple products without consciousness. In the text is says, “Women are animalized and animals are sexualized and feminized. 7. Anthropornography naturalizes sexual trafficking in and use of women.” (page 13) This is important because it shows the treatment that women and animals get – this relationship is important to understand because the meat industry turn them into nothing more than commodities, stripping them of their consciousness and individuality. 

Adams, Carol J. 2010. The Sexual Politics of Meat: A Feminist-Vegetarian
Critical Theory. London and New York: Continuum.

Kemmerer, L. (2006). The pornography of meat by Carol Adams. Philosophy Now: a magazine of ideas. https://philosophynow.org/issues/56/The_Pornography_of_Meat_by_Carol_Adams 

The image of the figure slicing meat can be an important symbol in Vegetarian Ecofeminism, a movement that connects vegetarianism with women’s views on ecology. This shows the connection between the exploitation of women and nature. While slicing meat might seem straightforward it has an important meaning – It can show discomfort, when discussing animal rights and sustainable living, making viewers reflect on the relationships between humans, animals, and the environment. You chose this photo for Vegetarian Ecofeminism because it highlights the need of a plant-based diet for social justice as well as environmental justice.

 Meat slicing is a more general disregard of exploitation connected with the idea that it affects women and creatures both dealing with environmental damage and different techniques. This imagery inspires us to reflect on the ethical and environmental consequences of our eating habits and aim for a more respectful connection with all life forms and the environment. One example is pork because in certain religions it is not allowed, and another example is women eating salads to maintain a perfect body. These show deeper cultural attitudes and gender roles that are still present today. In Islam, Judaism, and people who are Seventh Day Adventist pork is forbidden due to religious traditions. This doesnt just ban food preferences but it’s a way to be committed to their faith and their community. Salads are seen as a symbol of health and femininity mainly in Western cultures. This comes from societal ideals about body image, where salads represent low-calorie nutrition. There is a perception that salads are a “woman’s food,” reinforcing stereotypes that associate slimness with femininity. Women may feel pressured to choose salads to conform to these expectations, showing the societal pressures around appearance.

 In the article Ecofeminism on the wing and Contextual Moral Vegetarianism it shows us the connection between humans and non-human animals. Gaard explains how the exploitation of nature and the oppression of women are linked. He argues that systems promoting gender inequality also foster the domination of animals, viewing them as beings with intrinsic value that deserve respect. In the text it says “Feminists and ecofeminists alike have noted the ways that animal pejoratives are used to dehumanize women. pointing to the linkage of women and animals in such derogatory terms for women as “sow.” “bitch,” “pussy.” chick?” etc” (Gaard 2001) This quote is important because it shows how women were degraded and dehumanized – women were labeled with animalistic terms which shows us the discrimination and inequality. In Curtin’s article Contextual Moral Vegetarianism, he shows the ethical implications of eating meat and the impact of our dietary choices. This view is important because it connects to cultural beliefs and environmental effects—shaping our responsibilities toward animals. In the text it says “Just as there are gender-specific reasons for women’s commitment to vegetarianism, for men in a patriarchal society moral vegetarianism can mark the decision to stand in solidarity with women. It also indicates a determination to resist ideological pressures to become a “real man.” (Curtin 1991) This shows us the connection between gender, vegetarianism, and cultural ideas. As women find empowerment in their dietary choices, men can also redefine their identities by becoming vegetarian. As people increasingly turn to vegetarianism and plant-based diets due to the climate crisis, both ecofeminism and contextual moral vegetarianism push for reevaluating our relationships with animals. 

 

Curtin, Deane. “Toward an Ecological Ethic of Care.” Hypanthia, No. 6, Spring 1991, pp. 68-71, Acrobat Version.

 

Gaard, Greta (Fall 2001). “Ecofeminism on the Wing: Perspectives on Human-Animal Relations.” Women & Environments.

The two photographs of my daily commute show the unpredictable but fascinating nature of New England weather. In the first image, I am walking to work on a sunny morning but even though the sun is shining it is super chilly and windy. My daily walks to work not only show a routine but also shows how unpredictable the community can be. By New England having such unpredictable weather, it carries a unique part in my history. New England is known for having different seasons – This climate not only shapes the environment but also influences the life experiences of people living in this area. Some states across the country do not experience the same weather changes so it makes it a personal experience for the ones that live through it. New England does provide us a significant foundation for democracy thanks to the historical legacies, current civic activities, and leading position in social advancements. The traditions of self-governance, town meetings, and active participation shows outsiders how democracy can thrive at the local level. By continuing to prioritize community engagement and advocate for progressive causes, New England reinforces the principles that shape a vibrant democratic society.  New England has also been a stronghold for social movements seeking to expand civil rights. In the 19th century, it became a center for abolitionist ideas, with important figures advocating for equality and justice. Their efforts not only impacted the local area but also contributed to broader civil rights movements across the U. S. I do believe we need the wilderness. We need it because it plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of our planet – it offers many physical and mental benefits and is a community just for species of wildlife. The wilderness provides educational opportunities and helps us understand our place in the world and the importance of the animals and plants. The wilderness is important to keep around because spending time in natural environments can be a way to reduce stress and improve moods. Being in the wilderness can be a source of relaxation. The wilderness encourages physical activity, as many people hike, swim, or engage in other outdoor activities when they are connected with nature. Not only does the wilderness have many benefits and climate change, but they also improve our lives in many natural ways. City dwellers can definitely experience a connection with the earth and their history. Through gardening, participation in cultural events, and exploration of local natural environments. In the text it says “To be surrounded by a singing, mating, howling commotion of other species, all of whom love their lives as much as you do, and none of whom could possibly care less about your economic status of your day-running calendar. Wilderness puts us in our place.” (Kingsolver p13) This is important because it shows even as a city dweller you can still make a connection with nature. This shows that even by sitting on your porch listening to the bird’s chirp can make a connection with the earth.

The Global South that includes regions in Africa, Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East, faces many environmental challenges like climate change, deforestation, and pollution. These environmental issues heavily affect women due to their social roles, economic responsibilities, and access to resources. One of the main ways women are affected is through their role as primary caregivers and providers of their household. In many communities in the Global South, women are responsible for gathering water, food, and fuel. “When I was in the capital of Kerala state, I remember some rich people telling me, “You can’t get the maids to come every day out here. They have a house and don’t need to work every day because if they stay home they won’t starve.” “(Shiva 2016) This is important because it reflects the economic and social dynamics that started from disparities in wealth and opportunity. Even though women may have the option not to work every day due to their families’ stability, many others are not as fortunate. This is an example of environmental degradation because these environmental changes can affect the lives of ordinary people, including domestic workers who give themselves more work on top of their duties at home.

 

One of the main similarities between Western and non-Western ecofeminism is the connection between the oppression of women and the exploitation of the environment. Both argue that patriarchal structures take part in environmental degradation and social injustice. Western ecofeminism shows us how industrial exploitation can lead to ecological harm and risk the health and well-being of women, mainly in marginalized communities. Non-Western ecofeminism to Agarwal is that women in developing countries face unique challenges because of the colonial histories and economic issues. Just by Agarwal’s first few words “Non-Western ecofeminism to Agarwal is that women in developing countries face unique challenges because of the colonial histories and economic issues.”(Agarwal 119) shows us the challenges that women faced in these countries, mainly in the context of non-Western ecofeminism. Some differences are that Western ecofeminism mainly focuses on aspects related to gender and environment that are connected to individualism and the rights of women. Hobgood-Oster shows a perspective of ecofeminism by questioning systems of patriarchy, it shows the interlinked nature of several different social problems. In the text it says, “By confronting systems of patriarchy, ecofeminism broadens the scope of the cultural critique and incorporates seemingly disparate but, according to ecofeminism, radically connected elements.”(Hobgood-Oster 2) On the other hand, non-Western ecofeminism is more context-dependent, recognizing the diverse social, cultural, and economic realities that women face in different regions. Non-Western perspectives often integrate traditional ecological knowledge and communal approaches to land and resources, emphasizing collective action and responsibility. Even Though both articles show the complicated relationship between gender and the environment, Hobgood-Osters article of ecofeminism was more interesting and informative to me. Hobgood-Oster shows ecofeminism as a movement between the abuse of women and the destruction of nature. This helps us understand how the abuse of women and the destruction of nature are more connected than we think.

 

Agarwal, Bina. “The Gender and Environment Debate: Lessons from India.” Feminist Studies, vol. 18, no. 1, 1992, pp. 119–58. JSTOR, https://doi.org/10.2307/3178217. 

Dr. Vandana Shiva  and Scott London. (2016, February 3). In the footsteps of Gandhi: An interview with Vandana Shiva. Global Research. https://www.globalresearch.ca/in-the-footsteps-of-gandhi-an-interview-with-vandana-shiva/5505135 

Hobgood-Oster, Laura. “Ecofeminism: Historic and International Evolution.” UMassD WGS 307 Blackboard: What Is Ecofeminism? Learning Module. https://umassd.umassonline.net/ultra/courses/_36339_1/cl/outline

 

Ecofeminism is a political and intellectual act that involves both feminism and environmentalism. Ecofeminism explores the relationship between the loss of hope for the environment and the oppression of women. In the text it says, “Oppression of the natural world and of women by patriarchal power structures must be examined together or neither can be confronted fully.” (Hobgood-Oster 1). This quote is valuable because it explains societal structures that influence both the natural world and women’s experiences, also because it gives us a sense of how women were being treated. The start of ecofeminism can be found all the way back from the late 20th century when women began to draw the line between the exploitation of women and the exploitation of nature. In the text it argues that both women and nature are often treated as resources that are being controlled and manipulated. Women automatically carry the nurturing and caregiving roles, so having a unique connection to the earth is unexpected. In the text it says, “Ecofeminism’s constructive worldview replaces hierarchical dualisms with radical diversity and relationship, modeled on both biodiversity and the feminist emphasis on the strength of difference.” (Hobgood-Oste 3) This shows how people need to move away from traditional and rigid beliefs because it divides and separates women from others embracing diversity. Hierarchical dualisms often happen in many aspects of society, where certain groups, ideas, or species are placed above others. If we think deeper into the meaning of ecofeminism it leads us to the exploitation of both the environment and the populations mainly women. 

When people think of diversity they mainly focus on gender inequality overlooking other issues like racism. Although gender equity is important as well it is also important to recognize that racism represents a challenge that affects many individuals and communities. Racism within ecofeminism is an important issue that connects environmental justice with social justice. In the text it says, “Few women of color have been able to remain in positions of leadership in activist or academic organizations for long periods of time. The political power of white women in these organizations undermines, often unintentionally, that of women of color.” (Hobgood-Oste 10) Women of color often face both racial and gender discrimination, facing a lot of hardship when involved in a predominantly white-led movement. The quote is important because even when women of color achieve leadership roles they might not stay in those positions for long. The photo of three colored women standing together, holding signs and microphones snaps a powerful moment of activism and advocacy for equality. Their faces show a mix of sadness, eagerness, and strength – creating a message about their commitment to justice and how important it is to them. The image not only shows the voices of marginalized groups but also shows us the connection between social justice and environmental sustainability. Each woman showed a different expression of the struggles faced by communities of color as a part of environmental degradation and social inequity.

 

Hello everyone,

 

My name is Jeanise Personna and I am a LAR major at UMassD in my senior year. I live in Boston with my mom and two younger brothers. During the day, I work as a full-time infant/preschool teacher in Seaport, MA. I chose the feminism blog the sample is titled Brown Girl Magazine. This blog can be modeled in my own work because it can provide an opportunity to explore the intersectionality of feminism, culture, and contemporary social issues. The magazine not only highlights the voices of women of color but also gives us a sense of community and empowerment. One way that Brown Girl Magazine cannot be modeled in my own work is through its authentic representation of specific experiences. The blog shares personal stories that resonate with their audience on a deeply emotional levell. One environmental issue that is particularly relevant to where I live is gender and racial discrimination. This issue is often overlooked in discussions about environmental justice but also plays an important role in determining how individuals and communities face the effects of environmental harm. Which connects to The Brown Girl Magazine blog because it shows the challenges faced by women of color in navigating environmental issues.