thefeminist sirenmagazine of the university of oregon

the work issue the siren spring 2011 editor-in-chief jennifer busby content editor laura castleman visual design jennifer busby kylie wray illustration meredith blume words anna bird carli barnum charlotte boesel elizabeth eagan julia whisenant kylie wray mary sherman nina nolen soon mi park victoria “vika” leque publisher asuo women’s center office emu suite 3 university of oregon eugene, oregon 97402 email [email protected] phone 541.346.4095 fax 541.346.0620 ONLINE sirenmag.tumblr.com WWW.UOREGON.EDU/~WOMEN/ OFFICIAL BUSINESS The Siren is published and produced by the ASUO Women’s Center. We are the only student-led feminist publication on campus. It is our mission to cover contemporary feminist issues and act as an outlet for the creative and intellectual development of women. Our staff consists of an editorial board ofW omen’s Center staff who solicit contributions from volunteer writers and artists. cover credits front: Workers at Manzanar internment camp in California. Ansel Adams, 1943. Public Doman Inside: Alfred Palmer, 1942. Public Domain Back: William Henry Jackson, 1902. Public Domain Palmer and Jackson images courtesy of Shorpy. THE SIREN spring TWENTY11 INSIDE THIS ISSUE

contributors 04 credit where credit is due editor’s letter 05 internet, I wish i knew how to quit you do-it-yourself 06 sticking it to sexist advertising neat / hurl 07 stop with the chivalry already news//response 08 the real story behind rosie the riveter news//response 10 corrective rape still poses a threat our bodies, our health 11 sweating for patriarchy feminist of the issue 12 foodie by day, rocker by night recipe 13 lunch, with a salvadoran twist our bodies, our health 14 tips for quick and healthy meals worker’s rights 16 balancing safety and economic need tristan taormino 18 coverage of both sides of her sex-positive talk across intersections 20 one community member’s response post-grad praxis 20 working at a feminist media powerhouse wonder women 22 angela davis drops by, local media throw a tantrum momentum 24 tales from road crew reviews 26 acknowledging life’s minutiae feminist fun page 28 tell me more: building relationship skills real talk 30 volunteering provides critical skills photos from wocc 31 yellow rage and favianna rodriguez

the siren 3 contributors julia whisenant Julia Whisenant is a third-year English major who enjoys fine caffeine, the works of Inga Muscio, talking about sex, and puppies. She spends most of her time reading and chain-smoking. She is currently employed by the UO’s Mathematics Department, which is actually a pretty sweet job. Julia is also a member of S.W.A.T (the Sexual Wellness Advocacy Team), where she does her best to end sexual violence and replace it with healthy sexuality. Her new hero is Tristan Taormino, who opened her eyes to the joys of feminist pornography. Her passions include analyzing representations of femininity in postmodern American literature, smashing the patriarchy with the Radical Cheerleaders, and spending quality time with the Willamette River. kylie wray Kylie is a sophomore Journalism major at the University of Oregon, hoping to minor in French and Women and Gender Studies. Kylie is currently a vol- unteer at the ASUO Women’s Center as well as a Siren staff member. She as- pires to spread feminism throughout the media and possibly work for Bitch Magazine in the future. Her hobbies include dancing (ballet, jazz, modern, and the like) reading, photography, and watching Netflix while munching on vegetarian snacks. She loves animals, tea, crazy colorful makeup, and badass chicks in the media.

soon mi park Soon Mi is an angry Korean feminist who is passionate about social justice, cooking, argyle, & ampersands. Zee loves to peruse books in the aisles of Smith Family Bookstore and hang out with friends over a home-cooked meal. Zee is not a fan of peas and hopes to one day get over this…but not anytime soon. Zee enjoys watching Molly Ringwald movies when under the weather and strives to make high marks like a good Asian child. Currently, zee is working on graduating in the spring, and aspires to one day get this rad tattoo. WRITE IT DOWN YOU REPORT, WE DECIDE IF YOU’RE GOOD ENOUGH EMAIL SIRENWC AT GMAIL DOT COM

4 the siren editor’s letter System Malfunction

roblems with my computer were minimal until the end of January, when the screen began to malfunction. It wouldn’t Pturn on completely until midway through startup. One day, the lower portion of the screen blacked out, and the part that was still visible was washed out and barely legible. My information was safe, but I couldn’t see well enough to access it. Until it was fixed, I found myself adrift, without the technological resources I’ve grown up relying on. Classwork became an obstacle complicated by my inability to use the computer I had come to depend on. I’m privileged to have a support system. My mother paid for the repairs. The amount—385 dollars—is a fraction of a new laptop, but it is far beyond what I can afford on my tight budget. That’s almost a month’s worth of rent, not to mention utilities and food expenses. As it was being repaired, I had to find alternate ways of accessing information. Directory assistance told me there was no Mac store in Eugene, and finally gave me a defunct address. Bitch Media, they told me on another occasion, didn’t exist. In the weeks that my computer was out of commission, I thought about what it must be like to be without a computer at all. I felt moment to acknowledge how women have impacted diverse fields. disconnected from my peers and my classes. I had to think about Contributor Julia Whisenant shares how she’s struggled through when I was going to do my reading for class. I had to find time to workplace harassment. Her story (page 16) feels familiar—I know do it at the library or figure out a way to print out the readings. that I’ve been in situations at work where I’ve felt uncomfortable Before, I would simply sit down with my computer and log onto and helpless to change how I was being treated. Alongside her story Blackboard. is information and resources to help you speak up on the job when As traditional media negotiates how to survive in an age where you feel it’s safer to do so. The strongest changes in favor of worker’s the Internet has become the dominant source of information and rights have resulted from employees banding together into unions to entertainment, many publications are shifting online. That change fight for fair treatment, and it’s important to know which victories doesn’t affect me as starkly as someone without access to technology. they’ve won for us. I can, after all, still use the University’s computing resources. In We also remember an icon: Rosie the Riveter. The woman behind Portland, those without access to a computer and the Internet must the muscles, Geraldine Doyle, passed away recently. The story of make do with the hour of time available for free at the county’s her transformation from a wartime factory worker into a symbol libraries. Some have resources that expand that time to two hours, of feminism is a tangled one. Staff writer Kylie Wray sorts out the but it is a pittance compared to the amount of time many students threads in her profile on page 8. are able to plug in. In the follow-up to her story in the Action issue, Mary Sherman is In light of these things, it is alarming that Congress is back. She’s done her time on the Sheriff’s work crew, and she’s back proposing to cut all federal funding for the Corporation for to tell us about it on page 24. Public Broadcasting. The CPB provides funding for both public Work is more than just the nine to five. Our relationships require television and public radio, two sources of news and entertainment maintenance, too. To bring levity to the emotional work of making that provide quality, low-cost information to all Americans. and maintaining friendships, page 28 features a game you can play Local stations rely on federal funding, but this money is heavily with anyone you’d like to get to know better. supplemented through underwriting and donations from the Enjoy and keep up with us online at sirenmag.tumblr.com general public. To defund the CPB sends a clear message to working-class America, that if they can’t pay for quality broadcast media, they cannot access it. Kelsey Wallace, the web editor for Bitch, sees this problem. Despite her role managing online content for the non-profit, she is adamant about the importance of printed media. Her job is in line with the way she wants to live her life, but that’s not the case for all of us. Read more on page 20. This issue, we’re focusing on work, and all the way that what we do shapes how we live. From advocacy to food, we’re taking a JENNIFER BUSBY, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

the siren 5 news//responsedo-it-yourself sticking it to the man challenge oppressive images and advertisements wherever you go with these easy to make stickers words by julia whisenant

6 the siren Neat / hurl

we needed a place to vent. this is that section in the siren. below, you’llfind the things that make us roll our eyes and the things that make us jump for joy. the right way to interrupt oppression Thanks, but I can get the door myself. n my Comp Lit class reclaimed and identify was walking into to trying to hold open Ilast week, a classmate with those labels. (And Ithe Knight library the door that I was used the word “ho” to just for good measure, last week and I held already leaning against. describe a character in in response to other the door open for a Not only did this invade a film who had abused comments that were man walking directly my personal space, but it and neglected her made in discussion, he behind me. Normally, also made me look like children. The following added in an addendum when you open a door a fool and undermined day, my Comp Lit about the ways in for someone, you my supremely selfless instructor spent a solid which scientific studies lean against the door act of charitable door- five minutes explaining historically led to to let them through, opening. He made me why it was inappropriate institutional misogyny.) as I did. Instead of (and himself!) look silly to conflate malevolent The classmate in walking through the for being courteous. I characteristics with question then raised door, however, the man have no problem with promiscuity. He her hand and took full screeches to a stop and anyone (of any gender) explained how those responsibility—sans stares at me while I’m holding a door open for phrases have been used defensiveness. If there awkwardly holding a me, but at least allow to degrade and oppress was a utopian model for door open. Somehow me to return the favor women and why those confronting and reacting confused, he artlessly instead of playing into terms should not be to oppressive language, maneuvers himself outdated acts of chivalry. thrown around when that was it. in order to help me. --Julia Whisenant there are students in the --Julia Whisenant Instead, he reached class (yo!) who may have above me in an attempt

Street names are a concrete demonstration of historic exclusion lace names define the list of importance Van Buren, an adamant Pour world. Streets, that we don’t have a opponent of abolition, in particular, provide bell hooks Blvd. or a be immortalized with reference points for Sojourner Truth Way? his own residential houses, stores, and Despite consternation street? No. Place names restaurants. They’re when city councils rally are mutable, and they named after Presidents, to change numbered should change when trees, Native American streets (as they did they no longer reflect tribes, rivers, letters, when 39th Ave was the demographics and and numbers. Women renamed Cesar Chavez history of our nation. are notably absent--less Blvd.), it’s worth the It’s time to demolish crucial than pines. The effort to define our the historic exclusion only street named after world by those who’ve of both people of color a woman that comes brightened in it, not and women from the to mind is Portland, by distant white men physical spaces we Ore.’s Rosa Parks Way. who controlled the past. inhabit. Are women so far down Should President Martin --Jennifer busby

illustration by meredith blume

the siren 7 news//response An undying image of feminism created from the male gaze Geraldine Doyle, the well-known face of Rosie the Riveter, died on Dec. 26, 2010, leaving feminists to ponder her life and the continuing disrespect shown towards working women. words by Kylie Wray We knew her as the face of The poster, an image of working woman, it still imposes an image of “Rosie the Riveter,” “Rosie the Riveter,” flexing her 17 year old Doyle shown certain qualities these women an embodiment of women who muscles under the exclamation flexing her muscles under the must have. The image portrays took over what were formerly “We can do it!” and inspiring testimonial “We can do it!” that you can be beautiful and known as ‘men’s jobs’ during many women throughout the was displayed for a short time slender to work in a man’s World War II, the original 20th and 21st centuries to in the Westinghouse Company job, but you must also be well production of the poster break out from the stereotypical buildings in 1942. The poster built. (It also sticks to the racial happened without regard to the mold and do more. Geraldine has been called everything from stereotypes of some media in female worker who inspired it. Doyle, who was unknowingly “morale-boosting” (Washington that she is white.) This poster After the war was over, cast as the model for J. Howard Post) to a “campaign to deter is one of the early forms of men returned to the working Miller’s Westinghouse, died on strikes and absenteeism” (New Photoshop touch up, with the world and women were December 26, 2010 leaving York Times). If the latter, the men in charge changing how expected to return to their behind a legacy of female image was used to impose a real women look and molding previous, everyday, at-home empowerment. male-dominated corporation’s them into a hard to reach vision jobs: cooking, cleaning, and Born in Inkster, Michigan thoughts about women in the that they have of women. raising children. These jobs are in 1924 as Geraldine Hoff, workplace: that women are lazy In a quote published by the expected to be fulfilled with the female icon grew up in and don’t work as hard as men. Washington Post after her death no monetary incentive, paid Ann Arbor. After graduating Doyle was not aware of the (December 29, 2010), Doyle with the potential approval of from high school, Doyle took poster until after it became a spoke of her pride in being husbands. During this time, a job as a metal presser. Doyle popular image of the feminist depicted in that poster, but the poster fell behind the press grew up an avid cellist, so movement in the 1970s and despite her optimistic attitude machine, not to be found again when she heard that one of the 1980s. She was alerted to the it seems logical to question until the ‘70s. This seems to other metal press workers had poster’s existence in 1982 that the thoughts and work symbolize that women had done damaged her hands on the job when she found a photo of it behind the poster were not well filling an empty spot but she quit the factory for the sake in a magazine and recognized as empowering to women as it was time to go back to their of her passion and went looking herself. they have been portrayed to work as homemakers, and that for other work. Doyle’s daughter, Stephanie be. Although the fact that the the poster was never meant to During her short time Gregg, explained that the face poster has become a symbol change the ways of the industry. working at the factory, a was that of her mother’s but of success and power among Doyle’s decision to work in United Press photographer, the muscles were not, that her women is worthy of note, the a metal press factory has come shooting images of working mother was a slender woman lack of respect shown toward the to represent women who work women, snapped a photo of who constantly busied herself woman who inspired such an hard every day to earn the Doyle leaning over a press playing the cello, leaving no inspiring image is representative respect that they deserve in machine. Later, J. Howard time for body-building. of how women were viewed in professions that used to belong Miller, commissioned by When the image was created, earlier times (and in many areas to men alone. In the wake of Westinghouse Electric J. Howard Miller did not are still viewed today). Doyle, her death at the age of 86, it’s Company to design posters for respect the working life of his as a working woman, deserved important to remember her life a campaign sponsored by their muse enough to alert Doyle that to be consulted and credited and the lives of those women, War Production Coordinating he was using her as the model with the work that Miller did, rather than one man who didn’t Committee, saw the image for his posters. Not only that, he instead of simply being used as a care enough to learn about of Doyle and decided to use used her face to make the poster pleasing face incorporated in an the life of one female factory her glamorous face and scarf more aesthetically pleasing, image in the way one man sees worker, showing once again that covered hair as the inspiration then spliced on Rosie’s muscles. working women. women have consistently not for the poster, without first Although the image has become Despite the fact that the received credit where credit is consulting Doyle herself. known for its display of a poster was eventually known as due.

8 the siren the siren 9 illustration by meredith blume news//response south african lesbians targeted men in the country are using rape as a way to punish women for straying from societal gender roles. Despite the problem’s persistence, the national government is doing little to stop them. (this content may be triggering)

WORDS BY NADUAH WHEELER ate crimes against both survivors of corrective rape in issues. Jill Henderson, the has anti-discrimination laws, women and queer small, under-funded safe houses. Research, Advocacy, and which prohibit discrimination Hindividuals are still an After Gaika was transferred Policy Program Coordinator based on sexual orientation. unfortunately ever-present to the Luleki Sizwe safe house, at Triangle, a queer-focused Still, since 1998, only one of the threat within our society. The Funda wrote a letter to the organization, said, “My 31 recorded murders of lesbians threat is taken a step further in Minister of Justice, Jeffrey understanding of rape is that in that country has resulted in a South Africa where on top of Thamsanqa Radebe, urging the it is gender violence and that conviction. an estimated 150 women being South African government to is linked to patriarchal systems The interrelation between raped daily, over 500 lesbian acknowledge corrective rape as of control and power… if criminalization and prevention women are forced to undergo a hate crime, which would force you think of rape in this way is shaky in the United States a horrific practice known as both government and police then you can see why lesbians as well. Despite criminal laws “corrective rape” every year. officials to take harsher action particularly are vulnerable.” on the books in this country, Corrective rape is the rape, in reported cases. After her In South Africa, there are few reported rapes end in beating, and verbal abuse of letter was ignored by Minister stark differences in the sexual conviction. Convictions that lesbian women in an effort to Radebe, Funda began a petition expectations of men and do occur often hinge on a story punish their sexual orientation through Change.org. women. Men are entitled that plays into myths about and make them heterosexual. This petition has now become to multiple partners, while what rape is, including who its Despite the severity and the most popular petition in women are pressured to remain survivors and perpetrators are. brutality of these crimes, they Change.org history. Its 140,000 monogamous. Sex is seen as a Though South Africa was go largely unnoticed and signatures has finally garnered a tool of procreation, and safe-sex the first nation in the world to unpunished by the South reaction from Minister Radebe education is nonexistent. take steps toward LGBTQA African government. For who promised to meet with Henderson explained that equality, their government has instance after Millicent Gaika, Luleki Sizwe activists and lesbians, who don’t fit into this been seriously flawed in the who was raped and choked to begin to enforce stricter paradigm, are punished. “It is investigation and prosecution for five hours, reported her punishments for these crimes. because they are seen to violate of corrective rape. With a assailant, he was arrested— Despite this promise, many the rules of gender, which (supposedly) upcoming meeting only to have his bail set at the people are still skeptical about describe what a woman is, how between the head of Luleki equivalent of 300 US dollars. any actual progress toward she should behave and which Sizwe and the Minister of He was then released back into change. In an interview with states that women’s bodies Justice, hopefully assailants will the community where Gaika Change.org, Luleki Sizwe belong to men,” she said. be prosecuted more accordingly was forced to live in fear until volunteer Billi Du Preez said, Corrective rape works as and the rate of corrective rape she was transferred to a safe “The promise of a meeting is a part of the larger power of itself will lower. Criminalization house run by a local Cape Town great, but quite frankly, after patriarchal control. It enforces is not the magic bullet, though. charity, Luleki Sizwe. being ignored for so long, I will gender roles. Though stricter Until the patriarchal structure Ndumie Funda founded this not believe it until Ndumie government intervention of South African government charity after her fiancée was [Funda] is sitting in the may prosecute and imprison and society is eliminated and a victim of corrective rape in meeting.” offenders, the problem will not the notion that women’s bodies 2007. As part of its mission, Other concerns are based less stop until South African society belongs to men is eradicated, Luleki Sizwe provides clothing, on issues within the government itself undergoes a dramatic rape, corrective and otherwise, support, and advocacy for than they are on larger social transformation. South Africa will persist.

Every day I am told that they are going to kill me, that they are going to rape me and after they rape me I’ll become a girl. --Zakhe Sowello, of Soweto

10 the“ siren our bodies, our health an exercise in internalized sexism when working out means struggling to conform to social expecations of gender presentation, an hour on the elliptical becomes more complicated than a target heart rate. words by anna bird or some, exercising is an on appearance come shining more focus on strong women? enjoyable activity that through. According to these Societal notions of health are also keeps them healthy. views, women aren’t supposed strongly tied to appearance— FHowever, doing crunches, to be strong—men are. Men you have to look healthy to be why do you running miles, or pumping iron aren’t supposed to be small and considered healthy. Nobody work out? are usually just tedious tasks in skinny—women are. This is talks about the biological an overall goal for a “thinner” or a concrete, physical instance benefits of working out or eating University of Oregon “bigger” appearance, depending when women are supposed to be well. Instead, media talk about students talk about on your gender presentation. weaker than men, giving them the benefits working out and what brings them out Our society has a set mold of less power and making them eating healthfully will have on to the gym the “perfect body,” and what more vulnerable to physical your appearance, and thus the that should look like if you are domination. benefits you will receive from male or female. The bodies All of these expectations and your more socially acceptable. So I am happy with the way I of various actors, models, stereotypes appear in Reebok That said, achieving society’s look and so girls think I’m sexy. porn stars, and professional EasyTone ads. One of the “perfect” body is not be --Alex Cephus, 18 athletes have set the bar high commercials, in which the attainable for everyone. Biology for ordinary people. Those of camera never sways from the and genetics play a huge part us who hit the gym day in and woman’s chest, states, “Make in the formation of your body day out, have images of Gisele your boobs jealous.” It implies and there isn’t a lot you can do Bündchen (or any pro-athlete that if a woman has a nice to manipulate those things no To stay healthy and to just if you’re a dude) as our end butt, nobody will notice her matter how many squats you do. keep active because I think it goal. Most self-identified men breasts anymore. This is a Studies have also found is really important, because don’t want to look like tall, direct display of how women’s correlation between obesity and in today’s society everyone is skinny super models, with bodies are viewed as a series low income. Access to fresh obese it seems. And it’s really big boobs and a flat stomach, of sexualized parts instead of a produce is a health issue for fun and I really enjoy it. but why don’t more women whole, respected entity. When those who live in so-called food want to look like Marion Jones men look at women, they deserts, where processed food is --Kassie Willis, 19 (world champion track and tend to see their perky breasts, the norm. The people who are field athlete) or Maya Moore rounded booties, or nice legs, most pressured to slim down (forward for the University but women’s bodies are rarely and work out may not have the of Connecticut’s women’s considered as more than these money or time for it. basketball team)? The answer: fragmented parts. Health is The next time you find I like getting my ass kicked in because they look too muscular; something that involves the yourself at the gym, think about the gym ‘cause when you’re they don’t have the “feminine” entire body, but so much of your goals. Are you working done it feels hella good… body that society deems so society’s focus is on things such toward a lower resting heart and if you get big or ripped ordinary and appealing. as a “flatter stomach,” or “toned rate or healthier blood pressure, or whatever then apparently There is a stigma attached calves.” The detachment of a or are you working toward a girls like it. to muscular women—they are woman’s limbs from the rest of smaller jean size? When you --Shaun Finn, 20 considered less attractive, too her gives them less importance talk about yourself, are you manly. That could explain why or value, justifying the lack of fragmenting your body into you see women predominately respect she is afforded. parts? Try countering negative using the elliptical machines It is important for all of statements with positive ones: in the UO Rec Center and us to love our bodies and Instead of distressing over the To get rid of my love handles the men filling up the weight to be comfortable with our diameter of your thighs, think and because I want to try out room. Most women strive appearance. On the other about how strong your legs are. for the cheer team and it’s not for moderately toned, skinny hand, health should be the Our bodies are part of us and socially acceptable to be a fat bodies while men want to be most important. So why is our should not be separated from Oregon Cheerleader. “big or ripped.” Both men society pressuring women and our minds and emotions— and women want to look young girls to work out for the no matter how many --Jessica Will, 19 sexually appealing, but with sake of a man’s gaze instead of advertisements fragment images that desire our societal views being healthy? Why isn’t there of women into parts. the siren 11 Nontrad Appreciation/ Take Back the Night We don’t need permission Awareness to walk the city we live. Day me May 20, 2011 . . us. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. No Victims, No closets, EMU Ampitheatre No Oppressing Silence. music We are food activities Survivors speakers resources We are FREE students teachers people Stand up. Sc am it, . . .. .re...... , whisper it. demand the day command your voice 10th anniversary OUT/LOUD Take Back the Night The largest queer women’s music festival in the Northwest! April 28, 2011, 6:30 p.m. May 13–14, 2011 EMU Ampitheatre. Details TBA Rally. March. Speak. International Women’s Day O/L Thursday, March 3, 2011, 7:00 p.m. doors open at 6:30 p.m. Agate Hall, 1787 Agate St. Featuring Keynote Speaker Dr. Vandana Shiva and Buy Tickets at the Performers, Speakers, UO Ticket Office Exhibits, and Expression $5 UO students $8 general 12 the siren FEMINIST OF THE ISSUE

FOOD MANGER by day, Punk Rocker by night

when she’s not coordinating meals for university students, Diana Subczynski, dorm food manager, belts out post-punk tunes in her band Rockstar Astronaut.

words and Photo by KYLIE WRAY Campus dorms are widely and specials…and then there’s Oregon? food services, you work nights known for tight living Dux Bistro, which is over at D: I was graduated from a lot and weekends and that quarters, shared bathrooms, LLC. We do salads made to college, and I had moved to was my career for a very long and abundant food. As the order; sandwiches made to Toledo, Ohio…I went to time…So this is the first time University’s General Manager order; we have a yogurt bar Bowling Green State University, in a while that I’ve actually seen of Retail Operations, Diana in the morning; we have an which is just outside of Toledo. I some weekends and seen some Sobczynski, a newly converted espresso station. was living in Toledo and I knew evening hours which is very Oregonian with a love for S: How long have you been some people out here and I was exciting. So that has definitely music and her band “Rockstar doing this? thinking ‘you know what.. I brought back my love for music. Astronaut,” is responsible for D: I’ve been in my current think I want to move’ because I’ve always had my love for providing the meals that so position, as general manager for I had visited here and I really music I’ve never dropped it, but many students rave about. three years. And prior to that liked it…I thought ‘I want to I do play piano and write songs Sobczynski works daily to I was a manager working late see how the other side of the and play classical music…I’m provide food for students, but night here for retail ops…I first country lives’ so I moved…back working on a band project when shift is done, she caters started there for four years and in ’97. actually, because I play guitar to her love of music instead, I’ve been in this position for S: What did you study in and I sing and it’s important either by playing classical music three. college? to have a balance…I definitely on the piano, or by belting out S: How did you decide to get D: I studied Public Relations find that balance by being able post punk tunes along with involved in this? and Music in college. Like a to address my creative side… drummer Tenaya Moore. Moore D: I’ve always been interested lot of folks studying music or because it’s a big part of my life. also happens to be Associate in food and it’s always come playing music they try food S: Do you want to tell a little Director for the Marketing very naturally to me…I was service because the hours are bit about your band project? and Communications Office managing a restaurant in town very flexible. Public Relations D: So I love rock’n’roll, I of Research and Strategic and was thinking that I was was just you know, I really know that’s a title of a song, but Initiatives at the UO. ready to move forward with my enjoyed the journalism side of I don’t play that one [laughs]. I SIREN: Can you tell us a little career and try something new, things and I enjoyed interacting do love pop rock and rock’n’roll. bit about what it is you do at and…my previous position, had with people, it covered a lot A lot of the songs that we are the UO? been open in the paper…and of bases for me and gave me working on are 80’s rock and DIANA: Sure, well I manage I was like.. hmm.. University a broad spectrum. I have a 90’s rock, so bands like Pat retail operations for housing of Oregon, this might be BA…so I got to study a lot of Benatar…we have a couple of food services, that consists interesting, so I applied and I’ve different courses. Foreigner songs. Lots of women of 5 different units. We’ve been here ever since. It’s been an S: Do you do anything with influence though, we have Pat got Grab’n’go, which is a interesting journey so far. your music now? Benatar, Linda Ronstadt and P.J. convenience store… and then S: Are you originally from D:Now that I’m in a Harvey. there’s Common Grounds Eugene? professional position…my S: How many people are in Café; Fire and Spice, which is a D: I’m not, actually, I’m from hours are in the daytime, your band? Mongolian Grill…Big Mouth Cleveland, Ohio. which they haven’t been for D: Just...a female drummer. Burrito, which is burritos, tacos, S: How’d you end up in a really long time. Usually in We’re a power girl duo.

the siren 13 recipe pupusas spice up lunchtime

Take a break from your workday and the same Pupusas old sandwich with a taste of El Salvador that is Makes 6 homemade, affordable, and delicious. 2 cups masa harina 1 cup refried beans, any flavor words by jennifer busby 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped 1/4 cup shredded vegan cheddar (optional) In the months since I’ve womanhood. Canola oil, for frying transitioned into veganism, Pupusas came to the US in I’ve found myself exploring the 1980s, when civil war in El In a large bowl, mix together the masa harina and 2 cups warm the food of other cultures. The Salvador caused refugees to flee. water. Stir and knead together to form a moist, cohesive dough. flavors I’ve found are far from Seventy-five thousand people Allow the dough to rest for 5 minutes; it will become easier to the California-style meals I were killed in the conflict. Those work with. It should be soft without being sticky; add more water grew up eating. If your lunch who escaped brought their food a spoonful at a time if needed (the dough should not crack around the edges when you press it between your palms). means a sandwich or a trip to a with them to their new homes. restaurant or food cart, trying Making pupusas is deceptively In another bowl, stir together the beans, cilantro, and cheese, if something new means saving easy. Some say that the first using. money on a meal that will be pupusas you make will look like just as delicious as one you’d the jagged shapes of countries. Place 1/2 cup of the masa dough in your hand. Form the dough pay for. Flattening the filled balls of into a ball. Using your thumb, poke into the center of the ball, Instead of relying on masa between my palms was working the dough up to form a lip around the hole. Fill the hole restaurants for a filling lunch, easier than I thought it would with a large spoonful of bean filling.W ork the dough up and over I’ve made an effort to plan my be. When filling tried to escape, the filling, encasing it in a layer of masa. Flatten the pupusa by clapping your hands together carefully to form a thick circle about weekly menu. I’m attracted to I would simply pat a little heap 4 inches wide. dishes that will pack well and of dough over the tear. reheat easily. On Sunday night, This recipe calls for a cup of Repeat with the remaining masa and filling mixture. I’ll make enough food to get me refried beans, but I doubled Heat a griddle or cast-iron skillet over medium heat and brush halfway through the week. If my it so I wouldn’t have leftovers lightly with oil. Cook the pupusas on the hot griddle for about lunches are both appetizing and from the can I opened. Feel 4 minutes per side, until the surface is lightly browned and no well-balanced, I can eat well and free to make your own beans. I longer sticky and the pupusas feel solid to the touch. spend less. used a 15 ounce can of fat-free Before I cracked Jennifer refried beans smuggled from my Serve topped with tomato sauce and curtido. McCann’s book Vegan Lunchbox mother’s garage. Any kind of Around the World, I had no vegan refried beans work well Curtido idea what pupusas were. I in this recipe. You can also mix was familiar with Latin fare it up by sauteeing greens and Makes 4 to 6 servings like tamales, burritos, and onions for added texture and 1/2 head green cabbage, chopped into coarse shreds (about 6 quesadillas, but these filled, flavor. cups) flat circles were new to me. For those unfamiliar with 1 large carrot, peeled and grated McCann blogged about the masa harina, it is made by 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced lunches she packed for her son soaking corn in lime before 3 scallions, sliced and has published two books. it is dried and ground into 1/4 cup white vinegar Compared to her first, Vegan cornmeal. It’s hiding in plain 1 tablespoon olive oil Lunchbox, this book samples sight at your local grocery store, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano more international flavors. and easily found at Hispanic 1 teaspoon sugar 1/8 teaspoon cayenne (optional, or to taste) Pupusas are made of masa grocers. Salt, to taste like tamales and tortillas. They Hot off the stove, pupusas are hail from El Salvador and it delicious, but they also reheat Bring a large saucepan full of water to a boil. Place the cabbage is said, in the hills, that you well, making them perfect and carrot in a heat-proof mixing bowl and pour in the boiling must know how to make them for lunchtime. Eat yours with water, covering the cabbage. Let stand for 2 minutes. Drain in a to be considered an authentic curtido, a traditional spicy colander. When cool enough to handle, press out as much liquid Salvadoran woman. While it’s cabbage coleslaw, or with hot as possible. true that culture and cuisine sauce. Pack them in foil and get are intertwined, I hardly believe ready for a lunch that will keep Place the cabbage back into the mixing bowl and add the jalapeño and scallions. Whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, that culinary knowledge is you satiated long after you hit oregano, sugar, cayenne (if using), and salt. Pour the dressing over essential to citizenship—or the grind again. the cabbage and toss to combine. Chill.

14 the siren our bodies, our health healthy food tips You know what they say about it make lunch a snap the information the ads leave unmentioned words By Laura castleman High fructose corn syrup has been trying to salvage its reputation. But the We all know that eating smiling faces in the Sweet Surprise commercials aren’t fooling anyone. regular meals throughout the day is a healthy and good idea. But bringing lunch in to work or school can be a real pain! In that words By Charlotte boesel last-minute rush when you realize High Fructose Corn Syrup sweetsurprise.com features more. The overrepresentation of you have five minutes to throw a (HFCS) also known as glucose/ vague, difficult to argue, one- this chemical sweetener makes it few items in your bag, what can fructose in Canada, and sided “myths versus facts.” Their difficult to avoid or consume in you bring to get you through the glucose-fructose syrup in the logic is frightening: one of their moderation. day? United Kingdom has gained myths is that high fructose corn Food from the grocery Step One: Protein. Having a celebrity status now that it has syrup is not natural. The CRA’s store is not the same as the solid source of protein is very been the topic of discussion says that, “High fructose corn homemade, freshly baked dishes important for ensuring your in movies such as Food Inc. syrup is made from corn — a our grandparents grew up on. energy levels and feeling good. and King Corn. The Corn natural grain product. High As we’ve turned cuisine into Try scooping a big spoonful Refiners Association (CRA) is fructose corn syrup contains no commodity, food has changed of peanut butter into a small attempting to rename, re-label artificial or synthetic ingredients dramatically. The processes and plastic container, tossing a few and reimagine HFCS. This or color additives and meets the ways in which food is made, string cheese into a cooler bag, makeover is a desperate attempt Food and Drug Administration’s enjoyed, and consumed are not or pouring a generous serving of to keep outraged “health freaks” requirements for use of the like they once were. Factories hummus into a container. Seeds aloof and the average American term ‘natural.’” Unlike other pump out snack cakes that are (like sunflower seeds) and nuts delusional. This attempt is a standards, there is no regulation mechanically filled with HFCS- are another quick way to access result of people being concerned concerning who can use loaded fluff. Processed food is protein. by the long, wordy, chemical “natural” in their marketing. It’s developed by food chemists, Step Two: Find a buddy for sounding term High Fructose a marketing ploy that doesn’t who study the processes your protein. Peanut butter is Corn Syrup. The CRA wants mean anything. and interactions of both the great on crackers, whole-wheat a gentler, fresher, and sweeter The CRA is making a last- biological and non-biological bread, or celery sticks. String name “Corn Sugar” that will not ditch effort to re-brand HFCS components of food. cheese goes well with cheese scare the masses. This attempt and improve its reputation with High fructose corn syrup crackers or pretzels. Hummus might actually work, as it has consumers. The first claim they is but one example of the is great with any vegetable in many historical examples. make is that high-fructose corn rapidly changing and growing (especially long, skinny ones like Have you heard of “low erucic syrup is the same as cane sugar knowledge of food science carrot sticks), as well as pita or acid rapeseed oil”? This is now and that your body cannot and nutrition. Most average other breads. called Canola Oil. Recently, the tell the difference. HFCS is Americans now focus on getting Step Three: FDA approved the name change sweeter than sugar, but it does enough antioxidants, vitamin Get your fruits of “prunes” to “dried plums.” not prompt the same feelings of B12, and probiotics instead of & veggies. Carrot sticks are easy This technique to re-brand and fullness that table sugar does. It’s concentrating on eating whole to eat on the go, as is celery or escape the tarnished label could harder to stop eating when the foods like vegetables, fruits, slices of zucchini and cucumber. work for High Fructose Corn food you’re eating doesn’t make grains, and legumes. Bananas and apples are great Syrup too. you feel full. Instead of a focusing on one-handed foods while you’re The Corn Refiners It’s true that all sweeteners eating a variety of healthful taking notes in class, and an Association (CRA) is quickly should be consumed in foods, the American diet focuses orange can add flavor to your working to give HFCS a face lift moderation but that is simply on quick fixes, fad diets, and meal. and they have begun with two not possible with HFCS. It trends (remember Atkins?). Step Four: Include snacks! television advertisements. The has been subsidized so heavily This has created a new career Granola bars, raisins, trail mix, first is of two mothers talking that it is the least expensive market. Nutritionists, food and fruit leathers can get you over brightly colored “fruit” option for food manufacturers. scientists, eating disorder through your day and come in juice (corn-sugar water) and It’s in everything because specialists, activists, and scholars all kinds of tasty flavors and the second is of a heterosexual it’s the cheapest option. The are working to educate and combinations. couple talking about a Popsicle. list contains bread, crackers, spread awareness about healthy With some of these items ready- These advertisements give “corn cookies, yogurt, pill capsules, food, nutrition, and the perils to-go in your kitchen, you have a sugar” a shining review. A juice, soda, alcohol, lunch meat, of space-age “food” like high great backup plan for rushed days. quick visit to the website www. sauces, dressings, ice-cream, and fructose corn syrup. Don’t forget to eat breakfast and dinner, too! the siren 15 part-time job, full-time frustration THE CHALLENGE OF EARNING BOTH MONEY AND RESPECT a part-time job can provide positive experience for your future career. But does it mean enduring negative experiences like oppression, discrimination, and silencing? words BY Julia Whisenant My heart was racing as I retirement home about eight following, his greeting to me me just how, exactly, a woman stood outside the retirement months after I started. He got when I clocked-in for my shift has sex with another woman. community three blocks from along with just about everyone was, “Hey Julia, how’s the He would go through every my house. I was there for there. We didn’t talk much, but bisexual-thing going?” I found sex act he could think of that an interview—my first job one day, we were sitting outside this mildly annoying, but after a woman could perform on interview. I stepped inside. To for our 10-minute break with a few weeks, nobody thought it another woman, asking me if I the right of the lobby was a large a few other employees and he was funny anymore, so he had had ever done any such thing. banquet room where I imagined made a generic, offensive joke to add to his repertoire. Soon, Everything he said to me was dozens of old people met to about Ellen DeGeneres being a he was asking me which of my humiliating. Looking back on it play bingo (which turned out to lesbian. I usually chose to stay female coworkers “I would (after a few years of college and be true). The kitchen manager, out of controversy at work, but rather do,” and if I refused to awesome friends), there were so Janice, met me in the lobby on that day, I just wasn’t having elicit a response, he’d assume many things I could have said to for the interview and gave me it. My response was to ask what I would “do” both of them. him. I responded, however, with a tour, which ended with my was wrong with being a lesbian. He would then tell the female silence. getting a job as a food server. He jokingly replied, “Why? Are coworkers in question that I Matt wasn’t the only problem. So began my journey you a dyke?” wanted to “do” them, and even One server threatened to out me into the wonderful world of “No, but I’m bisexual, so if though everyone knew he was to my father if I didn’t cover her employment. It meant a lot you have a problem with the gay joking, those coworkers would shift. for me when I was sixteen: community, you have a problem confront me and threaten to Other co-workers also tended money, independence, being a with me.” report me to the manager if I to comment on subjects that “real adult,” maybe a car when And so it began. Though tried to flirt with them. I had made work a nightmare. One of I could save up the money. there was an awkward silence one coworker threaten to beat my managers said to me, “I’m My first job was not just an directly following my coming- me up. After Matt got tired not a Nazi or anything, but introduction to culturally- out, the silence was not of that, he decided he would I just don’t like black people. sanctioned adulthood. It was maintained. Every work-day try to embarrass me by asking I’d never let one of them work where I learned firsthand about here.” Another coworker told oppression, discrimination, everyone that because I was powerlessness, and silencing. liberal and pro-choice, I killed I enjoyed my job. I tried What was the use babies; three coworkers refused to stay to myself and work to acknowledge me for a week quickly and efficiently. There of going to the after that. were stresses I learned for the manager? i had no What was the use of going to first time, and the joy of the the manager? I had no proof of bi-weekly paycheck. My first job proof of harassment. harassment. I had no evidence was turning out to be everything I had no evidence of of discrimination. Nobody I had expected. would have acted as a witness on Then there was Matt. discrimination. my behalf. I was alone. Matt was a prep cook “ I quit in April of 2008, never who started working at the relinquishing my silence.

16 the siren I’ve had jobs since then, and when you depend on your job only one was comparably bad. for food and rent, your life is at I worked at a fast-food place the mercy of your superiors. If where my manager told me that I needed my job to support a KNOW YOUR RIGHTS he’d never hire a black person, family, standing up to my racist because “all black people steal manager would be the last thing Workers’ rights can be complicated. Here are four basic shit.” The same manager told I’d do, because my sustenance laws to help you know what you shouldn’t have to put me that he “hates men who would depend on a positive up with in the workplace. dress like women. It makes me relationship with my manager. fucking sick and I hate them.” The workforce reminds He also frequently told me how me that oppression really is Discrimination: hot he thought I was and made as widespread as we say it is, Under federal law, employers cannot discriminate against daily comments about the size no matter how progressive you on the basis of race, gender, religion, national origin, age, of my tits. our friendship circles may be. or disability. Only some states—Oregon being one of them— Though I learned to stand When I’m amongst my friends, prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. up to oppression at work as it is easy for me to forget just Discrimination can refer to any aspect of your employment: much as possible, there is only how rampant oppression is, hiring, firing, termination, job training, promotions, so much an employee in a because I’m in a very controlled compensation, and discipline. subordinate position can say environment. At work, thrown to a manager (or an employee together with dozens of random who has befriended the people, being a queer, sex- Harassment:: manager). First of all, there is positive feminist that doesn’t Harassment on the basis of race, gender, religion, national the burden of proof. Without support oppressive statements origin, age, or disability is also illegal. Harassment refers evidence, I couldn’t prove any and behaviors makes me an to actions which create a hostile, intimidating, or offensive allegations I made about my outcast. It’s hard to be taken work environment, as well as actions which hinder job coworkers in court. In most seriously. performance. This could include racial slurs, derogatory jokes about your race/gender/sexual orientation, etc., or comments cases, my manager was a friend When you’re trying to make about your physical appearance. In order for action to be of my harasser, so there was a living and fight sexism, taken against harassers, it must be clear that the actions are little chance anything would homophobia, racism, or unwanted; in other words, you have to tell the harasser to happen. At the fast-food job, whatever else, your job becomes stop, either verbally or in writing (though it is easier to prove my manager was the son of more difficult. For those whose to your employer or a jury if it is in writing). the store manager, so any lives depend on their income, complaints would have been fighting oppression is an added discarded. challenge. There is no easy Family and Medical Leave Act: My livelihood never answer, but stand up when you depended on my job, but can, empower fellow workers to Your employer is only guaranteed to give you time off if they are subject to the Family and Medical Leave Act. To qualify, unfortunately, this is not the follow suit, and remember that your employer must have 50+ employees, and you must have case for many others. Some even after the hardest shift of worked there for 12+ months and worked at least 1250 hours. people have themselves, your life, you will eventually be If you qualify for the FMLA, you are only entitled to take leave children and families to able to clock out, go home, and for: 1) birth or adoption, 2) a “serious health condition” that support. This puts the employee fight for a better world. renders you incapable of performing work duties for 3+ days, in a position of vulnerability; 3) an immediate family member’s “serious health condition,” or 4) the need to attend to a family member on active duty.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Occupational Safety and Health Act: Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA), you are protected from detriments to your health and safety. Under OSHA, you are allowed to receive training and safety LGBT Employment Rights: information about hazardous chemicals and occupational hazards in your workplace. It protects employees from http://bit.ly/eHvKfq exposure to toxic chemicals, excessive noise, mechanical transgenderlaw.org dangers, and unsanitary conditions. bias.uoregon.edu

thethe sirensiren 1717 Challenging an industry marked by domination

Self-identified sex educator and feminist pornographer Tristan Taormino speaks about her work, the industry, and a changing culture.

words by JULIA WHIsenant SIREN: So, can you tell me who aren’t very supportive of pornographers are with more or less sex-positive? Has it about your work? pornography at all. independent companies, but changed at all? TRISTAN TAORMINO: Well, TT: Pornography, specifically, I’m one who works for and TT: I have seen some changes. I wear a lot of different hats. I is a hot-button issue. It is with large companies: I’m in a Part of it relies on the fact that would say I’m a sex educator unfortunately a divisive issue shark tank. On one hand, I’m there are more women and first and foremost. Whether amongst feminists. Some aware of it. There’s a section of feminists making pornography. it’s a book, film, website, or feminists are completely the company building where all It has had an impact. We are any other medium, for me, supportive. Another group of the editing takes place. I call it still a minority, but we need to it’s all part of a larger system: feminists is not crazy about the “man cave,” and all of the keep pressing forward. We do it’s all about educating and porn, but willing to hear me out editing is done by men: they have fans, so we don’t need to empowering people about their and create a dialogue. watch hours of porn footage make the typical cookie-cutter sexuality. Other feminists, however, are with naked women in it, porn. S: What made you decide to go like Gail Dines: they are rabidly sometimes including me. Men S: Can you tell me about your into pornography? and radically anti-porn; I don’t mostly run the companies and 2008 book, Opening Up? TT: I first came to it after get any support from them. All have a lot of power and control, TT: The book is a guide to writing The Ultimate Guide to porn is bad to them. but that’s changing. There creating and maintaining open anal Sex for Women. I wanted S: Is there any reasoning with is now a community within relationships. The book is based to create a video adaptation of these feminists at all, in your the mainstream pornography on my original research, which the book that was education, experience? industry that is supportive. consists of 126 interviews of yet sexy and hot. I wanted it to TT: Definitely not. Anti-porn With my company, I have a people from North America be explicit, not softcore porn. feminists are so fiercely driven unique position; I have a lot practicing some form of non- So I decided to approach large by their own agenda that of freedom and support there, monogamy. Their voices power pornography companies and they aren’t willing to listen. which is really important to me. the book. It details different ask them to fund and distribute They throw out so much It is also challenging to stand styles of open relationships and it. When I first did the film, I misinformation and fire people out in an industry with so much includes real stories. found that this is what I wanted up about it. I don’t even like product. There is just so much S: Have you noticed an increase to do, but not necessarily full- to debate with them about pornography being created in the popularity of open time, because I was working it anymore—it’s not useful, and distributed that it’s hard to relationships? Is it that more on a lot of other projects. In because they aren’t even willing distinguish yourself. people are talking about their 2005-2006, I came back to porn to listen. They don’t give me But on a personal level, I get open relationship or that more deliberately. I felt like there any respect at all. I want to talk tremendous respect from the people are considering it? wasn’t enough porn that showed with those who may or may not men in the field. Obviously, TT: There seems to be a trend genuine female orgasms and real agree with my work, but are some are sexists and treat of more dialogue about it female pleasure. What I wanted willing to hear me out. Those me with disrespect, but that and more people willing to was to add my voice into the conversations are so much more happens in any field. However, consider it. A lot of people are mix. Ever since then, porn has useful and encourage learning. I’ve never really felt like I’ve not questioning monogamy, which been central to my work. S: What challenges do you face been listened to because I’m a involves unpacking cultural, S: In your eyes, is the feminist as a female pornographer and woman. political, and religious baggage, community generally supportive sex educator in a historically S: Since you’ve been doing and focusing on what works for of the work you do? There male-dominated field? feminist porn, do you think the them. seems to be a group of feminists TT: Oh, lots. Many feminist industry as a whole has become 18 the siren Taormino discussion on Feminist porn illuminates some but offends others words by soon mi park n February 16, author, and pornographers are from sex work is understandable, but has not had a history of sexual columnist, editor, and broken homes, uneducated, the conditions for those in the abuse, that many have and will Opornographic film director substance abusers, and have most dangerous situations must experience sexual assault in their Tristan Taormino visited a history of sexual abuse, improve, too. lifetimes. Taormino’s emphasis campus to speak about her life Taormino spoke about her As a queer-identified on performer choice implies as a feminist pornographer. college career at an Ivy League individual, I was also that she would support the Taormino began her lecture school. The dichotomy created disappointed in the lecture’s lack stand against sexual violence; by speaking to her recent by casting her experience of discussion regarding both her however, I implore her to start disinvite from the Oregon against the stereotypical view experiences as a pornographer by examining her own use of State University’s “Modern of sex workers oversimplified who identifies as bisexual and as language. There are alternatives Sex Conference”. After the issue. While I am all for a feminist who strives to subvert to using the phrase “gang bang.” explaining that OSU’s Interim dispelling myths, I am not very the current paradigm of adult They include group sex, an orgy, Vice President for University fond of the manner in which films. Although she alluded to etc. Adopting the oppressive Relations and Marketing,Todd this dichotomy was presented. the queering of films in terms language of pornography does Simmons, did not feel that it While I believe that Taormino of asking her performers their her work a disservice. was appropriate for taxpayer was trying to highlight the preferences in activities and in Having said all of this, it is money to pay for her visit, she current societal attitudes partners, I was hoping for a without a doubt that Tristan decided to accept the invite towards sex workers and that more explicit discussion of how Taormino’s lecture was very from the University of Oregon which is deemed socially queerness plays a role in the illuminating and captivating. and tell us about her personal unfavorable, I think that she production of pornography, as We live in exciting times! I’m experiences as a writer and sex missed an opportunity to speak it is commonly thought of as an not certain that even twenty educator. about the ways in which sex only-for-male-pleasure business. years ago, a lecturer like As a self-identified feminist work means different things to As someone who has Taormino would have been pornographer, Taormino delved different people. For Taormino experienced sexual violence, I invited, much less paid for her into the nuances of her work and the people she works with, was taken aback with Taormino’s visit to a college campus to and shared with us her ideas sex work is a professional career use of the word “gang bang” – speak about her life experiences of what feminist pornography that allows her to challenge a word that, for me, suggests so openly and honestly. I is, that it exists, and how she a male-dominated industry. forced, and often violent, especially applaud her on her makes it. Following her speech, These sex workers are unionized, intercourse. It was alarming to noteworthy comment on her Taormino opened the floor to but for others, sex work may not hear this after she emphasized forbidding of fake nails on set, a brief question and answer be as empowering. For others consensual sex, and more so her emphasis on her performers’ session. still, sex work is not self-chosen. because it was juxtaposed with rights to choose their partners While it was illuminating Some do this work because her discussion of feminist and their activities, her esteem to hear Taormino speak, a of economic need. Others are pornography. Coercion and for sexual protection, and for few comments in her lecture manipulated or forced. While feminism are incompatible. her ability to talk about sex in garnered my attention. As a sex work exists on a continuum The two should not be used an open forum in a manner that Women’s and Gender Studies and consists of both positive and in the same context as when did not make me feel ashamed, major and a feminist, I found negative experiences, Taormino speaking about healthy sex. As embarrassed, or guilty for liking the lecture to be classist, denied that that there is a “seedy a sex educator, I would hope the way that I enjoy my body. heterosexist, and at times underbelly” of pornography, as that Taormino would consider appalling. In an attempt to well as sex work in general. Her this in the future, as well as dispel the myth that sex workers focus on the positive aspects of consider that although she

i think that she missed an opportunity to speak about the ways in which sex work means different things to different people. “ the siren 19 behind the scenes at bitch media words by jennifer busby Kelsey Wallace was nervous. cognitive dissonance bubble Wallace began at Bitch as an Her first job, at a suburban Mr. where I think everyone wants to intern, where she worked for to balance the racial makeup of Formal, meant measuring older hear the feminist perspective,” three months before a stretch the office. “We’ve always had the guys from her high school. At she said. where she was paid to fill in mission to be about more than 16, the experience made her Bitch Media is the umbrella gaps in staffing. In March 2009, one group or perspective,” she uncomfortable. She hadn’t heard term for what was once only she was hired as the web editor, said. of Bitch, and the University a print magazine. As other where she’s worked since. Wallace also acknowledges of Oregon graduate hadn’t yet magazines have capsized under Subscription and donation that men are not equally dreamed of working there. the weight of the recession and drives occur throughout the represented. It’s become an Wallace graduated from dramatic technological changes year; the organization just office joke to bemoan the the Master’s program in in how many access media, finished a February subscription inability to find a male mate journalism at the University of Bitch has expanded its presence drive where they met their goal at work. “There are men who Oregon. Her post-grad resume online. of 801 new subscriptions. contribute,” she said, “but reads like a feminist fantasy She’s been surprised at the Wallace is among the half of it’s not equal. Part of [Bitch’s] come true. She’s gone from response to some critical blog Bitch’s eight paid staffers who feminism is about promoting admiring the work of Bitch as posts. She thought that touchy also hold other jobs. She spends women.” That’s why, she an undergraduate to working issues would center around about 17 hours in the Alberta explained, the magazine focuses as their web editor from their public policy, not reality St. office each week. She also on female bands and female Northeast Portland office. television shows. Fans get teaches communication studies films. When she applied for the sensitive when pop culture is as an adjunct professor at the There are male feminists in position, she was looking for under the microscope, she said. University of Portland and is the world, she said, but their experience between her Master’s Regardless, she holds firm. a web editor for a major cable involvement is more surface- and Ph.D. Her intended focus “We’re not going to back down network. level. They aren’t going to make for her Ph.D was ethnography. from critiquing something There are times when she’s jokes about the organization’s She wanted to go behind the because a lot of people like it,” frustrated, though. Wallace name, “but they aren’t going to scenes to see how feminist she said. Most of the comments knows that she could make subscribe, either,” she said. media is made. In retrospect, on the blog expand topics and more money elsewhere, but Passers-by do spot the sign Wallace is glad she didn’t get contribute to discussion. A blog she wants her life to be about outside the office and make into her Ph.D program, because post about Bravo’s The Real what Bitch is about—seeing the crude jokes. She brushes aside it allowed her to continue Housewives franchise resulted world through a feminist lens their behavior, “A lot of it comes to work for the non-profit. in comments noting that the and working against oppression. from guys who don’t spend She says she feels lucky to Atlanta version of the show is She said that many people don’t a lot of time thinking about participate. the only one that even alludes to have the financial ability to feminism—their loss.” “Not many people can use racial issues. work somewhere they love. It’s When time and money their love of TV, feminism, and Coming from academia, she’s expensive, she said, to work for allows, Wallace says she’d like to journalism in combination and happy to have a more responsive a nonprofit and hold two other reach a younger audience. She’s get paid,” Wallace said. audience. “What you said made jobs. frustrated that Bitch’s feminist Employment at Bitch means a difference to someone besides “I would love to stay here message reaches women so late she gets to work closely with yourself and your professor,” forever,” she said, “but you can in their lives—often after they’ve one of her feminist role models: she said. The comments section only work at a part time job for graduated high school. cofounder and editorial/ on the blog allows readers to so long.” Wallace isn’t aiming to The name of the organization creative director Andi Zeisler. respond to the text and converse leave anytime soon. She’d like to has made it difficult to reach “I’m inspired by her,” she said, with the author of the post. stay for a couple more years if younger audiences as well. “I “she knows so much.” There’s “Other people are reading and she can. love the name, but every one definitely a resemblance: both interacting with your text,” she Although the editors strive to in a while it’s a little bit of a women have dark hair and said. “In academia, you feel like create inclusive content, Wallace hurdle,” she said. “Overall, it’s expressive eyes. In a world you’re banging your head against knows there are weak spots. for the best because it speaks to shaped by the male gaze, they the wall.” “You can always do more,” she what we do.” turn their eyes outward to do Wallace also finds the said. Party because their office is This year marks Bitch Media’s what Bitch does best: critiquing shorter format of her writing at in Portland, she said, the staff is 15th anniversary. Wallace says the culture that surrounds us. Bitch refreshing. “I’ve written predominantly white. she wants to be around for its Coming out of her feminist academic papers that probably For this reason, she’s sought 25th. It’s like the feminist mafia, workspace can be a jolt to her could have been summed up in out guest bloggers with other she said. “Once you’ve been in, system. “Sometimes I’m in a a blog post,” she said. backgrounds and perspectives you can’t get out.” 20 the siren the siren 21 illustration by meredith blume wonder women Inappropriate media response overshadows event’s purpose Angela Y. Davis spoke at the Lyllye B. Parker Conference in January. Following the keynote performance, responses resonated from the local media which seemed to be driven by misinformation and a failure to provide credit to the event and sponsors that brought Davis to campus. words and photo by jennifer busby In late January, the ASUO published. get you in print,” he said. position of privilege) and Women’s Center partnered Harris intended to publish However, Harris failed to refusing to publish a response with campus and community Lowry’s guest commentary publish any of the responses he from those on campus who members to hold a two-day as a way to call attention to received that addressed Lowry’s support Davis. These include conference addressing the its racism and falseness. He rant. In this case, racist myths feminists and people of color, experiences of women of wanted to air the oft-unspoken went unchallenged. groups that share membership color. In addition to a variety feelings that some in our Among those who responded and a history of being silenced. of interactive workshops, the community have. But if Lowry’s to Lowry’s commentary are Harris baited the university conference featured renowned inflammatory opinion was based Michael Haimes-Garcia, Jon community with Lowry’s ill- spoken-word group Yellow on faulty logic, why did ODE Phan, Jessica Rojas, and Soto. informed article. He put the Rage, radical muralist Favianna Opinion Editor Tyree Harris Haimes-Garcia is the head of onus on women, communities Rodriguez, and scholar and publish it? the Ethnic Studies Department of color, and allies to respond. activist Dr. Angela Y. Davis. “I ran that guy’s article not and the Director of the But when they did he did not Overall, local media coverage because he had good, valid Center for Race, Ethnicity, amplify their voices in the pages of the conference was meager. points...but because he was so and Sexuality Studies. He of the paper; he silenced them. Lauren Fox’s Register Guard wrong and so heinous, that was succinct in his critique, Ultimately, the frustration article was so focused on how I wanted the University of dismantling Lowry’s argument and conflict that has developed much money Davis would Oregon community to see this by presenting the facts. His out of Lowry’s commentary receive that the rest of her piece man’s thought process so that response was not published. and media coverage of the suffered. What was printed was we could potentially unify and Jon Phan, Men’s Center conference is tangential. Instead a bland overview of Davis’s work express our frustration with Director, responded as an ally. of allowing one misinformed that lacked context. this ignorance,” he wrote in his “By focusing on one speaker, perspective to overshadow the Representation of the event email response to Soto, which the Emerald reinforces and Women of Color Conference, was limited to Fox’s article and was released to the Siren. perpetuates the oppression that let’s refocus. two inflammatory opinion Editing the opinion section women of color experience on ASUO Women’s Center pieces: a guest commentary in of a paper is a tricky task. Who campus. More important, the Diversity Coordinator Andrea the Oregon Daily Emerald and finds their voice in print and Emerald is silencing the voices Valderrama created an a letter to the editor published who does not? An editor should of women, women of color, intentional space to focus on in the Register-Guard. Both consider multiple opinions and and those who support them,” women of color. She curated misinformed pieces were written strive to reflect the community’s he wrote. His response was not workshops to address the by UO alumnus and Eugene concerns in the pages of the published. oppression that is a daily part lawyer Robert Lowry. paper while pushing readership Rojas, who works at the of many lives, with a focus on Lowry calls the keynote to consider diverse perspectives. Women’s Center, responded healing the wounds that are event an abomination and It’s questionable that Harris with a lengthy piece intent on inflicted by ideologies that tend substantiates his argument with published Lowry’s commentary setting the record straight. She to put women and people of misinformation. Neither the with the intention of causing an detailed the conference, its color last. Register-Guard nor the ODE uproar. supporters, and its workshops. This space brought more than corrected his factual errors. Harris continued that those Her response was not published. 800 people together: students, Student Lidiana Soto outraged by the coverage of It is true that we can only faculty, staff, community took exception to the guest the conference and the keynote address ignorance if we know it members, and people from commentary. “I’m not asking speech should come forward. He exists. Once we hear the myths, as far away as New York. We you to be neutral, as it’s a joke said he wanted to avoid people we can debunk them with the shared meals and stories. that any journalist thinks this of color being pigeonholed facts. And yes, the university can even happen, but I’m asking as angry minorities. “I think Harris is unintentionally community rallied to bring for equal coverage of issues from that you definitely deserve an reproducing oppression by Davis as the closing keynote all angles,” she wrote in an email opportunity to run in the paper, publishing Lowry’s ignorant speaker. Fox, who pursued to Harris. Her response was not and I will do whatever I can to opinion (putting him in a the financial issue, and Lowry 22 the siren Brandy Ota and Lyllye B. Parker embrace after the announcement of the conferences transformation from the Women of Color Conference, to the Lyllye B. Parker Conference and Speaker Series.

Angela Davis spoke as the keynote speaker on the last night of the Women of Color Conference.

As Angela Davis walks to the front of the Columbia 150, many of the more than 500 audience members rise to their feet to welcome the speaker.

(who insists that Davis is a legend: Lyllye B. Parker. in Aug. 2010, Parker was Parker “in a community where terrorist) should take note of Valderrama announced that the approached by many in the racism, sexism, and classism still who partnered to bring Davis to Women’s Center’s Women of community who wanted to directly affect communities of campus. Color Speaker Series was to be memorialize her mother. My color on a daily basis,” she said. On the night of her speech, renamed in honor of Parker’s belief is we give flowers to The activist community in Columbia 150 was packed with contributions to the community the living, not the dead, she Eugene will continue to hold more than 500 people who see and university. responded. events and rally for change, the importance of the anti- In the 1940s, Parker’s In naming the Lyllye B. whether or not local media oppression work she’s done since maternal family moved from Parker Speaker Series after her, provide adequate coverage. the 1960s. New Orleans to Eugene. They we honor the work that Parker However, it is our hope that The closing event presented experienced racism in both has done for students at this journalists recognize the long an opportunity to hear a places, including housing university. That story is one that history of media outlets in this feminist legend speak about the segregation that prompted was neglected by local media country as institutions that work she does, but we chose to Parker’s mother Mattie Reynolds coverage. examine those in positions take this high-profile moment to campaign for housing equity. Valderrama underlined the of power and challenge their to acknowledge another living After Reynolds passed away importance of recognizing authority. the siren 23 Smuggled Sandwiches and safety goggles our favorite feminist vigilante is back. She’s paid for her crime (read about it in the action issue) and now she’s ready to regale us with her experience doing time on the sheriff’s work crew. The second of two parts. words by Mary Sherman Hey there gang, aviators. He is grinning at the Perhaps you remember the joke. last time you heard from me, Roll is called again, and the I was embracing the newly- my last article warned you of the group is split into three crews acquired convict in me, and dangers of drinking, biking, racing, mud- for the day’s tasks. After being heading to the Sheriff’s Road slinging, sassing DPS, being photogenic, herded into one of the trucks, Crew for a full-blown, nausea- ticket-taking, court-going, and right on I stared forlornly out the inducing, skin-itching, muscle- up to the now of road-crewing. In other window to the few stragglers aching, and rip-roaring 24 with no camper to be shuttled hours of service. That’s right, words, we fought the law, and the law into. The Sheriffs spoke with I survived. Now I want to fill won. these unlucky few. Whoops you in on all the glorious details “ of joy startled me out of my of those magical weekends my upcoming year) and I made behind the jail and waits reverie, and I realized that they in an attempt to dissuade it just in time with only my until further notice. The were being sent home. No all interested parties in the Driver’s License, jacket, and yard contains at least two punishment, no rescheduling, wrongdoings I undertook many pink paper in hand for roll-call. Sheriff trucks, their boxy just underfunding and a way moons ago. In March, I will be able to take campers looming large behind to make the rest of us unlucky In review, my last article the pink paper out of my wallet them. They are blatantly and souls jealous. And off we went. warned you of the dangers of forever. Until then, I was strictly unmistakably labeled: Sherriff’s Ironically enough, my crew drinking, biking, racing, mud- instructed to have it with me Road Crew; complete with bars was situated right across the slinging, sassing DPS, being at all times—“more important on the windows and a full view street from the scene of the photogenic, ticket-taking, court- than your driver’s license.” from the outside in. On average, crime. (For those of you not going, and right on up to the There were 25 other about an hour lapses before with us previously, The John now of road-crewing. In other miscreants loitering about the badges saunter out from E. Jaqua Academic Center was words, we fought the law, and the outdoor cage where the their morning loiter. When Undesirable: No. 1, Target the law won. morning routine occurs. Some the Sheriffs finally showed up, Manifested) Working with my Day one on the Sheriff’s of our number knew the routine one lanky man with a scrubby fellow furloughed inmates on Road Crew had a rough start. inside and out. beard asked one of them with a the landscape and shrubbery They are very particular, you For all you first-timers out startling air of confidence: “Are along Riverfront Parkway, I was see, about what a person can there, once your name is called we going to be using any power able to gawk at the wonders bring (nothing), what time to you are asked to stick around tools today?” of the Jock-Box all day long. be at the jail (early), your style after the call and chat with the “Yeah…” replied the Sheriff, I worked my buns off raking, of dress and, I was told with a presiding officers to get the not entirely sure what direction clipping, sweeping, squatting, disdainful look that assumed low-down. The low-down, as it the conversation is headed. sitting, staring, and flirting. I was bent on rule breaking, turns out, means trooping into “Can I go get my own safety I had heard of road crews out absolutely no cell phones. Check- the jail for your mug-shot. I can goggles? I have them in my East where the Sheriffs carried in is at 7:30 a.m. sharp. I feared only imagine what my weary- truck.” loaded rifles and though I the punishment for tardiness eyed, hung-over, greasy-haired “I have some, but, yeah, hadn’t seen that kind of artillery would be harsh indeed. mug looked like that morning. I I mean, if you need to,” he yet, I didn’t want to test the Luckily, I live quite close to should have brushed my teeth. replied. uniformity of crews across the the jail (my mother wondered After the photo shoot, Suspect A, of course, returns aloud later if this foreshadowed everyone reports to the yard wearing a pair of shiny gold

24 the siren momentum

country on my very first day. sure to make a big enough deal me back to court and I got an away from this one with poison Of course, before beginning about my “life threatening food additional 30 days on Road oak all up and down my arms the day’s labor I had to don allergies” that no one bothered Crew. Now I spend every and legs. my bright yellow vest labeled me about the lunch I had Saturday and Sunday out here The final day of Road Crew INMATE. packed for myself. Seven-thirty for four months.” was bittersweet. The plethora Thousands of seconds into on the dot, I rolled into the “Felony possession of pot in of rumors and speculation that the grueling shift, it was finally cage for roll call. It was fun to a school zone--it was only an fly around the road-crew crowd time for some grub. Starving, watch the new inmates squirm. ounce!” one convict said. are reminiscent of the most I rushed to the bright orange Me? I was hardened regular by “Unlicensed gun ownership.” loquacious of stich-and-bitch cooler, and recoiled in dread. I this point. I knew the ropes, “Felony DUI.” circles. Rumor has it, that your selected the least soggy (which and knew this was a cut-throat And the circle finally ended final day of road crew you are isn’t saying much), saran- crowd. Some advice: Keep your with me. Vaguely embarrassed, I allowed to leave. wrapped sandwich pack, an head down and appear fierce at admitted my heinous crime: Remember the envy of those orange, and a cookie. Do you all times. “I threw mud at a building.” folks who got released on day remember the 60 cent loaves This time I met up with an A short silence. The other one? Well, this could be my day. of white bread that, when old buddy who also happened convicts look around at each I woke up in time, biked to the wadded up, also function as to be on the crew and shot the other for a minute until jail with my lunch and other pencil erasers? A necessary lunch shit about our various deeds that everyone in the circle busted unmentionables, and patiently component, apparently. As I landed us furloughed (slammer- out laughing. Throughout the awaited the two sets of roll calls. peeled the bread apart to reveal bound). We stood around for course of the afternoon, I was Roll call one: “Sherman?” the bologna and green mayo another hour before the badges the butt of many jokes about “Here.” Damn. OK, no combination, I looked over to headed out for the second round the very serious nature of my mention of home yet. see Suspect A, still wearing his of roll-call and assigned us to crime Wait, wait, wait, one hour aviators, pull a meatball sub the various rigs ahead. Yep, I As I lugged a branch over to in the yard. Roll call two...roll out of his pocket and begin was serving today, headed out the woodchip pile, I received call three (must have missed munching away happily. A west to an old homeless camp many shaking heads, serious some)...YES! I am victorious. I sharp ringing sound pulled his for some brush clearing. looks, barely disguised grins, am headed home. My heart is attention away from his large Lunch was the same as before, and a few mutterings of: fluttering, the birds are singing, and delicious lunch from the with the upgraded veggie option “paying for your heinous it begins to rain glitter, and local sub shop, and he whipped of egg-salad. I smiled happily at crimes” complete with winks an impromptu parade erupts his cell phone out of his pocket my cleverness and, more content and outbursts of laughter. The from my heart, there will be and began jabbing away for the with my lunch, felt ready to inmates found me, and my no final shift for me. Pop the rest of our 30 minute lunch gossip the lunch break away crimes, cute indeed. champagne, crack the eggs, it’s break. The Sheriff does nothing. with my fellow mischief makers. After the half-hour lunch, I breakfast time! At around 2 p.m., we finished I had been inducted into the spent the rest of the afternoon Now, even though the cleaning up the area and society of furloughed inmates, appearing busy. When the Sheriff’s Road Crew is a fond headed back into the camper and was ready to hear the tales presiding officer stayed just memory in my past, I am still for the return trip to the jail. of past crimes and whatever the downstream from me, I could a furloughed inmate until Unfortunately, my inexperience most recent escapades were that traipse around the ditch and March when I can lose the pink meant I had broken no rules landed these fine folk shoveling look busy picking up a branch paper for good. The sentencing (brought nothing with me), and dirt. here and there, or maybe a piece was a Diversion Plan, and I had not brought my cell-phone “What did you get?” One of garbage which needed to go have almost completed it. I or house keys. inmate began the inevitable to the furthest trash bin from had to attend an in-custody After we returned to the jail, roundtable conversation. where I was working. arraignment at the jail, complete I walked home and, after such a “I was camping with my two At some point during the my hours on the Crew, and rough day, promptly passed out daughters and we were robbed. day I thought some of the keep my nose clean until my on the front steps of my house. My daughters chased the little bushes looked familiar. impending court date: one Because I couldn’t get in, I laid assholes down, and I took a shot Poison oak? Nah, they wouldn’t more month, and counting. there thinking, “Eight hours at one of them while they were bring us out to a place with no So far so good, but there are down, 16 to go.” running. I didn’t see the cops protection and no warning of still thousands of moments Day two on the Sheriff’s right behind. The judge said if said poison; that sounds like a until that day. Cheers to clean Road Crew. I had smartened I didn’t try to run, I probably lawsuit, right? Unfortunately, noses, and no actual cell-time. up enough by this time that I could have gotten away with it.” this was also the day I chose to Hope this continuation has kept my cell phone on silent, “I was only given four days, wear my pants that were cut demonstrated to all y’all how house keys in my pocket, bike and I just didn’t want to go short below the knee, and short dangerous and lurk-y the 50 locked up outside, and made the last one. Well, they took sleeves. And indeed, I came can be.

the siren 25 REVIEWS Mata Hari, the original femme fatale Public Domain feminist press reprints captivating memoir is vintage pulp fiction obsessed with minutiae words by nina nolen words by Laura Castleman Eight years ago, the Feminist is confronts different areas of Elisabeth Tova Bailey’s unique The Sound of a Wild Snail Press at the City University of growing up female: body issues, memoir, The Sound of a Wild Eating is an elegant, quiet, and New York made an amazing sexuality, orientation, marriage, Snail Eating, is an intimate captivating book. Although decision. They began to print love, and pregnancy. By the end look into the minutiae of there is no major adventure, or a series of books titled Femme of the novel each woman values life that occur unnoticed all movement greater than about Fatales: Women Write Pulp. This her life as independent woman around us. When Bailey falls two feet at any one time, one series is a collection of short and learns how to navigate the ill with a mysterious disease finds oneself fascinated and novels spanning a wide variety world around her. that makes her nearly unable invested in the snail’s life. of topics including mystery, The G-string Murders, Gypsy to walk even to the bathroom, When I was reading it, science fiction, romance, and Rose Lee’s mystery novel, tells she becomes bedridden. Alone I found myself frequently other dramatic genres. the story of a burlesque club in her room, she cannot muster pausing to read passages aloud The idea was sparked by a and the murders that take the concentration and strength to friends, or to ponder further used book vender in Florida place there. The whole story is to even read a book, and must what Bailey had written. Each who sent a copy of a 1930’s pulp glamorous, and Lee has written turn to alternative forms of chapter opens with a quotation fiction novel to the Feminist herself in as a main character. It entertainment. or a poem about snails, by Press. The editors “felt it was puts a world of bumbling cops One day, a visiting friend famous writers ranging from the touching on issues that were and fierce dancers on display, finds a snail in the woods near famous Japanese poet Kobayashi kind of explosive for its time,” allowing the women to shine. Bailey’s home and, along with Issa to the English writer John (Bookselling this Week, 2003). The book went on to inspire a pot of violets, gives the tiny Donne. Three books were published the 1943 film Lady of Burlesque friend to Bailey. Although at Along with speaking of the originally in 2003, and were met while Lee wrote one other first the author is alarmed at more spiritual, poetic side of with warm reviews. The editors mystery novel. the prospect of caring for this snails, Bailey also reads about have published six more. Thanks to these enjoyable creature, she eventually grows to and shares scientific knowledge These novels are reprints of stories, I think it is safe to adore it. Its home expands from of snails. The entire book is works written by women in assume that the other books the pot of violets to a terrarium, like a miniature course on snail the first half of the twentieth would be an entertaining read. and page after page of the book mythology, biology, and poetry. century, and capture female The Feminist Press of the City describe delightful details about Bailey’s book is a relaxing voices during a male- University of New York has the creature: how it eats square and truly different read. It is a dominanted era. created a great space for women holes into postcards that Bailey delicate book that one can easily Valerie Taylor’s novel, The to write, publish, and read then mails to friends, gracefully fall in love with – and it teaches Girls in 3-B, follows three young excellent books. Next time you extends itself into a small shell us to value and respect the girls as they move to the big city crave pulp, reach for Femme of water for a drink, and grooms small, often overlooked animals and take on reality. Each girl Fatales. itself like a cat. in our world. 26 the siren reviews

illistration by vika leque thriller blurs fantasy and reality, both on screen and behind the scenes words by elizabeth eagan Psycho-sexual ballet thriller. what it is to be a ballerina. Her a ballerina, but once she had health in pursuit of a moment’s This is the most succinct bedroom looks like it belongs “really started dieting and lost spotlight is the norm. description possible of Darren to a child: stuffed animals line a serious amount of weight” Take another look at Nina’s Aronofsky’s latest film, the one pastel wall and a music box these same people began room. Every time she reenters it, widely acclaimed Black Swan. chimes her to sleep with the complimenting her. it looks a little more ominous. Starring Natalie Portman theme from Swan Lake. Mila Kunis, who plays Her stuffed animals stare at her. as Nina, a restrained, driven, But the movie isn’t about Portman’s understudy and Her mother appears inside the perfectionist ballerina, Black the dream. It’s about the competition in the film, Lily, room with no warning. The Swan shows in gruesome detail reality hidden behind it. In also underwent dramatic weight tune on the music box sounds the realities of a childhood pursuit of the dual role of the loss. On Jimmy Kimmel Live more ominous as the darker dream gone wrong. Swan Queen and the Black in late 2010, she said that she context of her life is shown. Ballet is pressed firmly into Swan in a production of Swan lost 20 pounds during training. Every time the film revisited the social consciousness as Lake, Nina lies, pushes herself Her normal weight, she says, is that little-girl room I thought, the quintessential “little girl” through injuries and exhaustion, 117 lbs. She went on to say that “This is what that childhood activity. It creates a world full and casually pops out to the Portman lost more weight than dream comes to if you let it of pink tights and tutus, grace, bathroom to make herself vomit she did. consume you.” daintiness, and innocence. Even with no awareness that any of This is a concrete example of Black Swan shows in stark in my otherwise nonconformist this is unusual. In the real ballet social pressure to conform to a color and harsh violence what childhood, I took ballet lessons world, it isn’t. particular body image. Just as hides behind the pink tulle: while my brother played soccer. In an interview on NPR, the film’s characters persevere objectification, the enforcement Watching Black Swan, I was Natalie Portman discussed her through draconian training, so of a single ideal of physical reminded again and again of preparation for the role of Nina. do its actors. perfection, and the cost of that frilly ballet studio where In pursuit of the “Balanchine It’s ludicrous to expect an maintaining that image of The Swan Princess was always ideal,” an image of a dancer adult woman to weigh less than beauty — no matter the cost to playing on the television in that requires slimness and long 100 pounds, but as Portman mind and body. the lobby. Nina is exactly the limbs, she worked with a trainer said, her weight loss was praised. Black Swan successfully image of what ballet was to me who literally pulled on her limbs Portman mentioned having inserts the audience into as a child. I looked up to the to lengthen them and she was dislocated several ribs during Nina’s world. The blending elegant, thin older girls with instructed to “lose as much filming, but said that it was of fantasy and reality within their perfect buns, sheer skirts weight as [she] could without nothing compared to some of the film tells a cautionary tale and pointe shoes. getting sick.” the injuries ballerinas will dance about perfectionism. The bleed Although I grew away from Portman remarked that with in order to avoid being through into the work the actors ballet as I matured, Nina seems during the first part of her replaced. This is the world Black must do demands we broaden never to have entered the real preparation, the dancers she Swan shows, where narrowly our consciousness to other fields world. She never moved away worked with repeatedly said defined physical perfection is than ballet where bodily sacrifice from that childlike imagining of that she looked nothing like the goal, and jeopardizing one’s has become the norm. the siren 27 what woul d so c ietal norms, a b out one thing I f you c feminist fun page State your full

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Don’t limit yourself to one word answers. There’s no time limit, so feel free to elaborate and follow tangents. Discussing the last good book you read can open the door to discovering that the person you’re playing with would be a Des c ri b e your favorite meal. perfect part of that book club you’ve been meaning to start. Tell me more If a question is uncomfortable for you, speak up. Flip again to move to a new ter, ter, oul d e? space and continue playing. Recognizing and expressing boundaries is an c c important part of any relationship; this game is no exception. tional tional e any it b b fi c c hara d woul who f you you I f the rules

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words by Vika leque ave you ever felt an situation, which is what most of was closer in age; sometimes the that I—an eighteen-year-old emotionally intimate the students wanted. difference was only five years. It high school student living Hconnection with About six months later I was relaxing for the kids and I with just a dad—was making a someone that you can’t express heard about a volunteer training to draw pictures with crayons. difference in my clients’ lives. in words? Have you ever felt at the women’s shelter, and I Some afternoons, another When I finally left, I realized that same connection with joined. The training was about advocate and I took them on how connected I became with every one around you? In my 50 hours in two weeks—intense field trips to the nearby parks my co-workers. My co-workers sophomore year of high school, is an underestimation for this or climbing wall. My most were my friends, always I wanted to start volunteering organization. The two weeks favorite times with the kids was encouraging me, and listening with younger teenagers because were just before high school when they opened their lives to my problems. I tried to do I noticed most of my struggles midterms, so not only did I to someone for the first time, the same for them, and if I with friends, school, crushes, study continuously for my and the person they told was was out of my league I offered sexuality, my parents’ divorce, classes, but I read an extra me: talking about their school, administrative support by taking and my identity began just twenty pages a night for the friends, siblings, mothers, and some of their workloads with before I turned thirteen. The training. The weekend sessions fathers. re-arranging meetings, sending first volunteer organization I were the hardest as they lasted If I wasn’t with the children, out letters, or taking phone went to was called TRAIN— 10 hours on Saturday and 9 I did plenty of administrative calls. And for someone like me Teens Resisting Abuse and hours on Sunday. tasks. At first, I hated this work whose mother disowned her, Initiating Non-violence. The Emotions ran high and long because it was lonesome and my co-workers became my older local battered women’s shelter debates broke out every other boring, but as time progressed I sisters, my aunts, and my stand- called AWARE—Aiding hour. I know I seem crazy found a sense of release. It was in mothers (yes, at that time all Women in Abuse and Rape for finishing just one, but I an emotional break from the of my co-workers were female). Emergencies—sponsored continued with two more clients and it did not take long A part of me felt lost when TRAIN Afterward, I found that volunteer trainings for another to develop some organizational I left, and I sometimes cry TRAIN impacted me the most year because all I could think skills. I formatted informational because I miss all of them, but I because every teenager there about was working at the binders, and paperwork for know they are only a phone call was just like me: struggling shelter that taught me so much. upcoming events. After fund away. to triumph over their pasts Finally, I applied for a job in raising events, like the Women I took the skills I gained whether it was rape, violence, the summer of 2009 and the of Distinction Banquet, I into peer counseling at the suicide, drug addictions, or volunteer coordinator hired me. inputted the donations—in- high school, and the amount broken families. It’s difficult to When I got the job, I was kind and money—with the of knowledge I gained about admit things like these, which is eighteen and still in high school. money that was brought myself has been priceless while why we all shared a deep bond My supervisor never trained in. Other times I helped to transitioning to college. When at the end of the program. me to work with adult clients coordinate other programs I stress about all the class work, From the knowledge of since they were the women (Girls on the Run, and Race I use my organizational skills. advocacy learned at the were under the most stress. for the Cure) because most of On the days when I got into volunteer training, we were able Usually, I spent time watching these organizations depended arguments with my roommate to advocate for other students the children so the mothers on support from each other. A or friends, I called the shelter for students that did not trust could focus on finding housing, couple times a week, I cleaned for emotional support and to talking to adults based on the lawsuits, long-term protection the shelter. There were six toilets calm down. When my friends experience with their families. orders, and therapy. and carpeting on the second got into fights with their The other volunteers and I were Because I was the youngest floor that needed to be steam roommates, I could listen to in no way therapists, but we to work there, many kids cleaned. I always left the shelter them vent, and after a break the could listen, and relate to the gravitated towards me because I feeling a little weary, but happier two could talk the issue out.

I wanted to start volunteering with younger teenagers because i noticed most of my struggles with friends, school, crushes, sexuality, my parents’ divorce, and my identity began just before i turned thirteen. 30 “the siren Women of Color Conference 2011 photos by jennifer busby For more photos from the conference, head to http://sirenmag.tumblr.com/tagged/wocc2011

Spoken word duo Yellow Rage performed for students and community members at the Friday Keynote performance of the Women of Color Conference.

Favianna Rodriguez, a celebrated artist based in Oakland California, led a workshop on muraling during the conference. Those who participated in the workshop put together a mural that is now displayed in Petersen Barn.

After Yellow Rage performed, ASUO Women’s Center staff gather to reflect on the first day of theW omen of Color Conference. Registration for the Conference exceeded organizer Andrea Valderrama’s expectations. People of all ages and backgrounds flocked to the university for two days of workshops and performances.