Brunch ethics: Feminism & Structural Patriarchy

Emerging from the October brunch ethics discussion about the history of feminism was the topic of feminism in general and its relevance and acceptance today. What are the cultural and structural aspects of patriarchy that were at the root of the rise of feminism? Do those structures still exist? Is feminism dead because our culture is now beyond the patriarchy?
Consider these ideas, compiled by Nancie from her research:

1. women are responsible for childcare, housework, and emotional labour. Also caring for adults, e.g. aging parents, illness
2. Women face occupational segregation (concentration in “feminised” sectors like care, clerical and service work).
-persistent gender pay gap (10/2026 women make 84 cents on the dollar for comparable work)
-women are over-represented in part-time jobs, often due to childcare responsibilities
3. the state supports through laws and policies that restrict women’s opp, e.g. restrictions on contraception, limited affordable childcare, underfunded domestic violence services; no fault divorce
4. male violence against women, esp. domestic abuse and sexual assault which keeps women in a state of fear and reinforces male dominance in the home and public spaces
5. sexuality
-patriarchal norms shape and control women’s sexuality: double standards where women and judged negatively for behavior that men are praised for
-media and culture often police female sexuality while celebrating male sexual freedom
-many more derogatory words for women, e.g., tramp, whore, slut, bimbo, harlot, hooker, tart
6. Cultural Institutions
-religion, media and education as cultural structures that reinforce patriarchal norms
-media often portrays women in stereotypical or sexualized ways
-school transmits gender roles- “hidden curriculum” teachers girls and boys different expectations

No matter what you think about feminism, or whatever gender you identify as, join the discussion. Share your experiences related to the ideas above.

Join us on the patio at Jack's Restaurant a bit before 10:30 to be settled when the meeting starts. Look for the Ethical Culture sign at the table. We set out chairs for everyone so RSVP. Dress according to the weather! They have some shade, but we will be outside! Please arrive on time.

If you have symptoms of illness, please come to a meeting when you are well.

We are meeting at a restaurant and using their facilities. Please be prepared to order food. We are not meeting in a coffee shop.

Join us! Invite others! Bring your unique point of view and add to the
discussion.
See you there!
Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash