Why Feminism Matters Now More Than Ever: Burgerville community event recap
Thursday, July 26th from 5-8pm, feminist community-building and discussion filled the air at Hawthorne Burgerville. Community members came together to share a meal (or just a milkshake), discuss feminist politics, and meet kindred spirits. Paper for taking notes and commemorating conversation were on every table– it was heartwarming to see people exchanging contact information, discussing ways to engage in community organizing at In Other Words, and discussing issues such as Title Nine, why “feminist” is (not) a taboo word, gender discrimination, and the role of feminism in the Occupy Wall Street movements.
Most people took their conversation notes home with them, but here are a few of the memorable quotes that were left behind for all of us to read and share:
“When you fail to engage men on the same level as women, you mirror the same cultural mistakes men have been making for centuries.”
“2012 marks the 40th anniversary of Title IX. It forced (and continues to force) schools to address the inequities between male and female sports.”
“My grandmother didn’t have access to higher education because her father told her that going to college would ‘ruin’ her qualifications as a wife.”
“I am a feminist because society makes me feel like I cannot be beautiful and fat at the same time.”
“Some people think ‘feminism’ is a taboo word, but I disagree because even places like Burgerville are eager and willing to donate money to places like In Other Words.”
“I first heard about In Other Words through Portlandia, but it’s way cooler than Portlandia, IOW is a very healing environment for me.”
We want to extend our gratitude to Burgerville for teaming up with us to present this event. The support and dedication we received from the employees made it all possible.
We look forward to continuing to engage with the Portland community for years to come, and we invite you to join the conversation. If you’re a long-time In Other Words supporter, or if you’re new to the Portland feminist community, you’re welcome to join us at our 19th birthday celebration on October 11th.
See you soon!
